Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage insists he still has “100 per cent confidence” in his ability even after the club hit rock bottom. Sage’s job is hanging by a thread after Sunday’s 3-1 defeat by Liverpool, with Sean Dyche and Thomas Frank strong favourites if chairman Steve Parish brings down the axe in the international window.
But Sage said his chances were “better than you think” as he backed himself to turn the club’s fortunes around after Palace sank to the bottom of the Premier League for the first time in nine years.
Sage backs himself to turn things around
When asked whether he wanted to remain in charge for the forthcoming games with Coventry and Hull, Sage said: “100 per cent. I have always confidence in myself. If I’m not 100 per cent involved in what I have to do, it’s a big, big mistake.
“I think I’m not in this situation, but for the moment how we convert what we work is not at the level we expect but I know we have to continue.
“It’s not from a dream to a nightmare. I don’t have this feeling. I’m focused on my job and finding a solution. I was really happy to join this club but at the moment the results are not at the level. I know I have to push more on those things.
“I know the condition of the job, how important it is for the club to stay in the Premier League. I don’t have to convince people. I do my job and my job is the way to convince people, for me it’s the best thing. They just have to believe in that. If it’s not the case, they will take a decision.”
Liverpool boss praises Isak and Alisson
Liverpool went 3-0 up before Palace’s late consolation. Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola praised in-form Alexander Isak, who has scored eight goals in all competitions, and also Alisson Becker, who produced a string of fine saves. Iraola said: “Alisson was key for us with some great saves and it’s not just goals with Alex. His movement and his runs were so important.
“You want to finish with a win. It puts us in a better position but we need to keep improving. Now we are all praying because the last international break we lost three players and now, it is the last thing we need. I hope everything goes well and we don't lose anyone this time.”
Szoboszlai injury concern
Iraola admitted there are concerns over Dominik Szoboszlai, who limped off injured and is a doubt for international duty with Hungary. Iraola added: “He did not feel 100 per cent, that’s for sure. Let’s see. He is always desperate to report up for his country. But we will make checks with the medical staff. Last time, we lost three players in the international break and we have to be careful this time.”
