Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage is under pressure after last weekend’s heavy defeat by Brighton, but Chris Sutton believes the criticism should be balanced against the club’s current league position. Palace are 14th in the Premier League, one place higher than where they finished last season under Oliver Glasner.
Sutton acknowledged that the Brighton result was particularly damaging because of the rivalry between the clubs. However, he noted that Palace’s start has not been a case of collecting just one point from their opening seven matches. The team have conceded goals, although the former England striker pointed to the amount of change at Selhurst Park as part of the wider context.
Several important players have left in recent months, particularly in defence, while some of those who remain are reportedly unhappy. Sage has therefore had significant issues to manage during a period of transition.
Palace also played in Turkey on Thursday, adding to the demands on their preparation for the Newcastle fixture. Despite that, Sutton expects the Eagles to claim something from the game. He is concerned by how open Newcastle have looked under Matthias Jaissle, especially after their performance against Aston Villa last week.
Sutton’s view is that Palace could create opportunities if Newcastle’s pressing is not coordinated effectively. He does not expect the match to be dominated by either defence, making an entertaining contest more likely as Palace look to respond to the Brighton setback.
