Crystal Palace have confirmed the dismissal of coach Pierre Sage.
The Frenchman joined the Eagles in the summer as Oliver Glasner’s replacement but has failed to make a positive impression and departs Selhurst Park with Bottom of the Premier League table.
Sage landed the Palace job after a superb 12-month spell at Lens in which he guided the club to a second-place finish in Ligue 1 last season. They also won the French Cup for the first time in their history.
But it hasn’t worked for him in south London. Palace have taken just seven points from their opening 10 Premier League games and also suffered a damaging 5-0 hammering at M23 rivals Brighton last month.
Results have also been mixed in the Europa League with one win from four outings.
Sage staff are also leaving Palace
A statement from the club was read: “Crystal Palace Football Club can confirm that Pierre Sage has stepped down from his role as manager.
“Three members of Pierre’s coaching staff – Jamal Alioui, Damien Della Santa and Sandy Guichard – have also left the club.
“The club would like to place on record their thanks to Pierre and his staff for their efforts during his time in South London, and wish them all the best for the future.
“An update on the process of appointing a new manager will be provided in due course.”
Frank, the favorite for the Palace job
Thomas Frank is the favorite to take over. The Dane has been out of work since being sacked by Tottenham in February and is believed to be eager to succeed Sage.
Reports suggest negotiations are at an advanced stage and he could be appointed before Palace’s trip to Coventry a week on Saturday.
Frank failed at Spurs but made a name for himself during an impressive spell at Brentford, during which he helped establish the Bees as one of the most progressive clubs in the Premier League.
Sage is expected to find a new role quickly after being linked with a return to Lens following the sacking of Yannick Cahuzac on Tuesday. Lens owner and president Joseph Oughourlian is known to have maintained a close relationship with Sage.
