Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage has warned his players to expect a difficult test against Liverpool this weekend, describing the Reds as a “crazy team.”
The Eagles head into the Premier League clash following their Europa League draw with Hoffenheim, in which they battled back despite Adam Wharton’s red card.
Sage praised his players for refusing to give up but admitted Palace must improve their game management after another match disrupted by disciplinary problems.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Sage admitted Palace could have performed better but highlighted the importance of goalkeeper Dean Henderson’s saves.
“I think it could be better if we score before but I know too that Dean Henderson kept us in the game with his saves,” he said.
“I like the energy of the team and to never give up until the end. This goal came at a good moment. We maybe had a last chance to win the game.”
Palace were forced to reorganise after Wharton was sent off, leaving Sage to adjust his defensive setup.
The Frenchman refused to criticise the referee’s decision but acknowledged the impact of losing such an important player.
“I never comment on the decision of the referee,” he added.
Attention now turns to Liverpool, who arrive at the weekend fixture looking to respond after consecutive defeats.
Sage expects Andoni Iraola’s side to be particularly motivated to get back to winning ways and believes Palace must prepare carefully.
“First of all recovery and we have to build the gameplan because it’s a crazy team with really good players,” he said.
“They lost their two last games. I think they will come with a lot of ambition and we have to deal with that.”
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