Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage says Ismaila Sarr needs time to recover from the physical and emotional impact of a failed transfer move, but expects the Senegal international to be available next week.
Sarr, who scored 21 goals in 45 appearances for Palace last season, attempted to leave the club during the final stages of the transfer window after attracting interest from Liverpool, clubs in Turkey and Saudi Arabia.
Palace refused to consider a sale, maintaining throughout the window that the 28-year-old winger was not available for transfer. The club’s position led to a frustrated reaction from Sarr, who removed all references to Palace from his Instagram account.
Sarr will miss Saturday’s match at Fulham because of a groin injury that has kept him out since the beginning of the season. However, Sage indicated that the player could return to training and contention next week after being given time to regain his fitness and settle emotionally following the collapse of his proposed move.
Asked whether Sarr could still leave for Turkey or Saudi Arabia, where the transfer windows remain open, Sage said: ‘I spoke with him yesterday and he said he’s sure to be with us.’
The Palace manager acknowledged that the failed transfer had been difficult for the player, while stressing that Sarr must now focus on performing for the club if he wants to attract further interest.
‘He has to digest because it’s a dream for a lot of players to play with this kind of club. He had a good opportunity but it didn’t work.
‘If he wants the interest to continue, he has to give a good season with us, perform with us and score a lot of goals as he did last year. But we know that he needs time.’
Sage said he was hopeful Sarr would be back next week, although he admitted the player’s return date had already been delayed on two previous occasions.
‘I expect him (to be back) next week but I’ve said this twice before. What is important is that he comes in good shape and in a good mindset. That’s why sometimes we want to wait a little bit.’
Sarr’s representative, former West Brom and Fulham striker Diomansy Kamara, issued a statement on Wednesday criticising Palace. Kamara accused the club of ‘not respecting the will of an African player’.
Sage rejected that assessment and defended the way Palace had handled the situation.
‘I don’t really agree with this position. The club and the people here are respectful. We respect a lot of things and we just want the best for our club and our players.’
Palace’s decision to retain Sarr means the club will continue to rely on a player who made a significant contribution last season, when his 21 goals came in 45 appearances. For now, though, the immediate priority is ensuring he returns in the right physical condition and frame of mind.
