Sarr needs time after Liverpool move collapse

Ismaila Sarr will need time to process the collapse of his proposed move to Liverpool, Crystal Palace head coach Pierre Sage said. The Senegal forward was linked with a late deal to Anfield, but the move ultimately didn’t happen and he remained at Selhurst Park.

Learning to move on

Sage acknowledged that the situation requires some mental adjustment. “He has to digest for sure… it’s a dream for a lot of players” to play for Liverpool, he said, adding that Sarr “had a good opportunity” but “in the end it didn’t work”. According to the Palace coach, the best way forward is performance: if Sarr wants to keep pushing his case, he needs “a good season” with the club.

Injury keeps him out

On the pitch, Sarr is currently sidelined. The 28-year-old has yet to feature for Palace in the Premier League this season due to a groin injury, missing matches at Everton and at home to Manchester City. He is expected to remain out for Saturday’s trip to Fulham.

Palace explored options

With uncertainty around Sarr’s future, Palace were also in talks with Belgium forward Malick Fofana on deadline day. However, the 21-year-old left Lyon for Sunderland in a deal reported to be worth £30m. Sage said, “We gave our best”, and pointed out that the player “chose his criteria”, wishing Fofana the best while speaking about the negotiations with the same coach’s perspective.