Crystal Palace make Pierre Sage decision after difficult Premier League start

Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown believes Palace have enough positives to build on, but he has warned that the defensive problems cannot continue indefinitely.

The Eagles showed attacking quality during their victory over Fulham, but conceding two or three goals regularly will make it extremely difficult for them to achieve their ambitions this season.

Sage will now need to find a solution quickly and establish greater defensive stability.

For now, Crystal Palace are willing to stand by their manager. However, continued defensive problems could increase the pressure on Sage, particularly if results fail to improve.

The coming weeks could therefore prove crucial for the Frenchman as he looks to convince the Palace hierarchy he can turn the situation around.