Ismaila Sarr will “need time” to “digest” his failed move to Liverpool, Crystal Palace boss Pierre Sage says.
Sarr, who was Palace’s top scorer last season with 21 goals, emerged as a late target for the Reds during the closing days of the summer transfer window, and it looked as though the Senegal international may be closing in on a move to Anfield as they looked to bolster their wide options.
But the move did not materialise before the deadline, ensuring he will remain at Selhurst Park until at least January.
Sage admitted: “He has to digest for sure because it’s a dream for a lot of players to play with this kind of club.
“He had a good opportunity but in the end it didn’t work. If he wants to continue, you have to have a good season with us as he did last year. We know he needs time.
“Like every bad situation, time does the job and we need time for that.”
Palace gave their best to sign Fofana
The 28-year-old has not featured in either of the Eagles’ first two Premier League games against Everton and Manchester City amid speculation over his future, although it was deemed he had a thigh injury that will also keep him out of their clash with Fulham this weekend.
Palace were reportedly lining up a late move to try and hijack Sunderland’s move for Malick Fofana, who Sage managed at Lyon, but the 21-year-old chose to move to the North East instead.
“We gave our best,” added Frenchman Sage on the negotiations. “At the end of the day the player chose his criteria and I wish him and them the best because he’s a good guy and a good player.”
Palace, like Saturday’s opponents Fulham, are still searching for their first Premier League points of the season after losing to Eveton and Man City so far.
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