Pierre Sage’s position at Crystal Palace has come under discussion following a difficult defensive start to the Premier League campaign.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Monday Night Club, Chris Sutton questioned whether Sage had taken on one of the division’s most demanding roles this summer, particularly after the success enjoyed by Palace under previous manager Oliver Glasner.
Palace supporter Dan Cook said there remained considerable goodwill towards Sage among the club’s fans and stressed that there was no call for his immediate dismissal. However, he pointed to the team’s defensive record as a growing concern, with Palace having conceded 17 goals across their first seven league matches.
Cook also argued that Palace possess enough attacking ability to score goals, but said that defensive vulnerability could prove costly if it continues from week to week. In his view, a squad whose expectations are considered to be in the bottom half cannot regularly concede two or three goals and expect to avoid difficulties.
The discussion highlights the challenge facing Sage as he attempts to build on the standards set during Glasner’s time in charge. The full programme is available on BBC Sounds, with a clip of the debate also released by the broadcaster.
