Crystal Palace have begun evaluating potential replacements for manager Pierre Sage as pressure intensifies following a poor start to the Premier League season. The club's hierarchy is understood to be considering a shortlist of experienced candidates, including former Premier League bosses Sean Dyche and Thomas Frank.
Sage's position has come under scrutiny after Saturday's 2-0 home defeat to Newcastle United left the Eagles 17th in the table with just seven points from eight matches. Palace have the league's worst defensive record, having conceded 19 goals, and have lost five of their opening eight fixtures. Their next challenge is a trip to face Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, a side they thrashed 7-0 at Selhurst Park just last month.
Contingency plans in place
With the team's form a major concern, contingency planning is underway. Sean Dyche, who has been out of work since leaving Nottingham Forest in January, is a figure admired by the club's decision-makers. Thomas Frank, whose tenure at Tottenham ended prematurely, also retains a high standing within the game and is on the radar. Former Republic of Ireland striker Robbie Keane is another name in the frame should chairman Steve Parish opt for a change.
Pierre Sage arrived in the summer with a strong reputation after leading Lens to a runners-up finish in Ligue 1, just six points behind Paris Saint-Germain. His transition to English football, however, has been difficult. The team has managed only two league wins and was also knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Bristol City earlier this month.
Sage seeks internal solutions
Speaking after the Newcastle loss, the Frenchman acknowledged the external pressure but insisted he retains the backing of the club's leadership. "Yes. I think they do believe in me," Sage said. He added, "It's normal to be under pressure because we don't have the results."
The manager stated his focus is purely on improving performances ahead of the key north London derby. "Inside, we just are really focused on the solutions, how to be better and how to create the conditions to compete," he explained. Sage confirmed he had spoken with chairman Steve Parish this week but said their conversation centred on the game and team condition, not his future.
Palace's immediate fixtures present a stern test, with the visit to Tottenham followed by a home match against Chelsea. The club's perilous league position, 14 points adrift of leaders Manchester City, shows the urgency for a turnaround. Supporters can check the latest standings as the situation develops. The decision on whether to stick with Sage or make a change is likely to be influenced by results in the coming days, starting at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on October 31.
The report in full is at talksport.com
