Dean Henderson has publicly backed Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage ahead of Thursday evening’s Europa League meeting with Hoffenheim, insisting the squad remains united during a difficult spell.
Palace sit in the Premier League relegation zone, but Henderson said the league table can change quickly. He pointed to Tottenham’s recent movement as an example and believes the Eagles have the belief and experience required to improve their position.
The goalkeeper described Sage as a brilliant manager with an exciting approach, while identifying defensive improvement as an important factor in Palace’s progress. Henderson said he is fully behind the head coach and believes the team will be in a strong position if it can become more secure at the back.
Henderson is also approaching the upcoming run of fixtures positively. He acknowledged that new coaching methods do not always produce immediate results, arguing that the squad should continue to develop as the season progresses.
The Palace captain is waiting to make his first European appearance of the campaign after returning from an ankle injury. He could feature when Hoffenheim visit for Thursday’s 17:45 GMT kick-off, with Henderson stressing that it is now up to the players to translate Sage’s ideas onto the pitch.
