Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr needs time to process the collapse of his proposed move to Liverpool, according to head coach Pierre Sage.
The Senegal international attracted late interest from Liverpool during the transfer window. However, the deal failed to materialise, leaving Sarr at Selhurst Park for the new season.
Sarr finished as Palace’s leading scorer last season. His performances also made him a key figure for the club, which now hopes he can regain his focus and continue producing at the same level.
Sage understands the emotional impact of the failed transfer. The Palace coach believes Ismaila Sarr needs time to accept what happened before turning his attention back to the team.
“He has to digest for sure because it’s a dream for a lot of players to play with this kind of club (Liverpool).
“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.”
Ismaila Sarr remains sidelined for Palace
Sarr, 28, has yet to play for Palace this season. A groin injury ruled him out of defeats against Everton and Manchester City, and he will also miss Saturday’s trip to Fulham at 15:00 BST.
Meanwhile, Palace explored another attacking option on deadline day. The club held talks with Belgium forward Malick Fofana while uncertainty continued around Sarr’s future.
However, Fofana decided to leave Lyon for Sunderland instead. The 21 year old completed a deal worth £30m.
Sage said Palace made every effort to sign the Belgian but respected his decision. “We gave our best,” added the Frenchman.
“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 now face Fulham, who also need a result after losing their opening two Premier League matches. Fulham suffered defeats against Chelsea at home and Sunderland away.
For Ismaila Sarr, the immediate priority remains his recovery. Once he returns, Palace will hope the Senegal forward can put the disappointment behind him and reproduce the form that made him their top scorer last season.
