Crystal Palace are standing by Pierre Sage despite a difficult start to the Premier League season, with the club not currently considering a change in manager.
The Eagles have conceded 11 goals in their opening four league matches, raising questions about their defensive organisation. However, Palace are understood to remain willing to give Sage time to implement his ideas.
The latest setback came at home to Ipswich Town, where Palace were beaten 3-2 after conceding a late goal. The result added to concerns over a defence that has struggled to provide sufficient protection.
Crystal Palace backing Pierre Sage despite defensive concerns
Palace recognise that Sage has had difficult circumstances to manage since taking charge. Maxence Lacroix’s departure in the summer left a significant vacancy in the squad, while Axel Disasi and Honest Ahanor arrived on loan during the defensive rebuild.
The Frenchman has also had to contend with a disrupted pre-season, with several Palace players involved at the World Cup before returning to club duty.
Despite those challenges, the club expects results and performances to improve in the coming weeks. The Eagles demonstrated their attacking quality during the victory over Fulham, but their defensive record remains a serious concern.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown believes Palace have enough positives on which to build, while warning that regularly conceding two or three goals will make it difficult for the club to achieve its ambitions.
Sage must now find a way to establish greater defensive stability. Palace are prepared to continue supporting their manager for the time being, but further defensive problems could intensify the pressure if results do not improve.
The coming weeks are therefore likely to be important for Sage as he attempts to convince the Palace hierarchy that he can turn the situation around.
