Pierre Sage believes Crystal Palace’s challenging start to his tenure can become the basis for future progress after Wednesday’s Carabao Cup victory at Fulham.
The result ended a run of four matches without a win in all competitions and secured Palace a place in the quarter-finals. It also provided welcome relief following a 5-0 defeat by Brighton earlier this month, with the opening weeks of the Frenchman’s reign attracting scrutiny after Oliver Glasner’s successful spell in charge.
Sage told Sky Sports that the difficult period had forced him to reassess his ideas and search for solutions. He sees that process as an opportunity to develop as a coach while helping the players and team improve. The Palace boss felt his side began to resemble the team he wants to create during the second half at Craven Cottage, although he accepts that progress will come through consistent daily work.
The head coach also believes the foundations for improvement are being established away from the spotlight. His message is that Palace’s efforts now can create benefits later, provided the squad remains committed to the process and united with the club and supporters.
Palace travel to Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, where Sage will face Roberto De Zerbi. Sage previously visited Rome and Sassuolo to study De Zerbi’s coaching methods, but the pair will now meet as opposing head coaches. Sage wants to develop a distinctive identity in south London, with Palace aiming not only to win but to do so in a way that reflects their approach.
He called for calm, confidence and togetherness across the club as Palace work towards becoming a more competitive side capable of winning matches and titles. Tottenham Hotspur versus Crystal Palace will be shown live on Sky Sports from 5pm on Saturday, with kick-off at 5.30pm.
