Pierre Sage sets out patience, defensive leader and ambition in first Crystal Palace briefing | OneFootball

Pierre Sage set out patience, style and a need for a defensive leader in his first Crystal Palace media call on Thursday, two days before Everton visit. According to NY Times, the Frenchman, six weeks into the job, spoke with calm authority and said the Premier League is a reality.

He highlighted the gap after Marc Guehi’s January move to Manchester City and Maxence Lacroix’s £52million switch to Chelsea, and said Palace need an experienced centre-back. Axel Disasi appears the likely option, with talks with Chelsea over a loan, while he said one or two signings could follow if they truly fit.

He seemed to rule out a return for free agent Wilfried Zaha and also played down Adam Wharton leaving. Versatility helps, he noted, citing Oscar Mingueza, though it is not essential. Daniel Munoz could yet depart but is content, while Romain Esse is set to go amid talks with Club Brugge.

Sage will not reinvent Palace’s play, keeping three pillars from Lyon and Lens. He wants aggressive pressing to win the ball early, more possession high up, direct running and transition threat, with set pieces considered decisive. With the Europa League ahead, a deeper squad could be preferred than under Oliver Glasner.

Pre-season camps in Como and Freiburg limited his time in London, and World Cup scheduling meant he had the full group for only two weeks. He asked for patience and said early focus must be on principles over results.

Source: NY Times

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