Palace delay Pierre Sage decision after Brighton derby rout

Crystal Palace are not planning to dismiss manager Pierre Sage immediately after their 5-0 defeat by Brighton, although his position remains uncertain, according to The Guardian.

Palace conceded three times in the opening 10 minutes at Brighton, matching the club’s record for their heaviest defeat by their fierce rivals. The result also continued a difficult start to the Premier League season, with Palace having conceded 17 goals across their first seven matches more than any other side in the division.

Club chairman Steve Parish considered removing Sage but has decided to retain him for now. Palace are 14th in the Premier League and are not currently in immediate danger.

Sage is expected to remain in charge for Thursday’s Europa League fixture against Besiktas and Sunday’s Premier League match against Newcastle United. However, he has been told that results must improve in the near future.

The relationship between Sage and the club’s hierarchy had already become strained during the summer. Palace were unable to sign several players the manager wanted to bring to the squad.

Parish has also raised concerns about Sage’s decisions over team selection and substitutions.

Kieran McKenna and Thomas Frank have been identified as possible successors if Palace do decide to make a change.