Pierre Sage has thanked Crystal Palace’s supporters for their vocal backing during Wednesday night’s Carabao Cup victory at Fulham, while stressing that the team should remain the focus of their support.
Sage said he only understood the fans’ chants after reading messages online following the match, but appreciated the backing directed towards him. He added that he hoped the supporters were responding positively to the way he represents the club and its team, while recognising that Palace’s project would require time and continued work.
The victory extended Palace’s impressive record at Craven Cottage to five consecutive wins. Attention now turns to another recent happy hunting ground, with the Eagles aiming for a third straight victory away to Tottenham when they visit on Saturday evening at 17:30 GMT. Spurs will be managed by Roberto De Zerbi.
Sage warned that the performance at Fulham could not simply be carried across unchanged, pointing out that Palace had made 10 changes for the cup tie. However, he said the team’s mindset and playing ideas were in place, and that beating another Premier League side in the cup was an encouraging sign.
The manager also explained that Palace’s midweek rotation was designed to keep the squad fresh for Tottenham. He stressed that every point carries the same value, whether it comes against Liverpool, Spurs or another opponent, and said the strategy would need to be confirmed by the team’s performance on Saturday.
For Sage, the standout moment at Fulham came after the final whistle, when Cheick Doucouré joined the supporters to celebrate. He described the midfielder’s return to the pitch and enjoyment of representing Palace as especially significant after a difficult two years, adding that Doucouré appeared proud to wear the club badge and shirt.
Sage believes Doucouré’s presence can provide Palace with additional options and confidence, particularly because of his experience and leadership. He also pointed to the eventual returns of Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaïla Sarr, saying that having players who contributed heavily last season back with the group would be important for the team.
