Sarr needs time to recover from collapsed Liverpool move

Crystal Palace forward Ismaïla Sarr needs time to process the collapse of his proposed move to Liverpool, manager Pierre Sage says.

The Senegal international was linked with a late move to Anfield during the transfer window after an impressive season in which he finished as Palace’s leading scorer. However, Palace rejected Liverpool’s approach and Sarr remained at Selhurst Park.

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Sage acknowledged that missing out on a move to a club of Liverpool’s stature could be difficult for the 28-year-old to deal with.

“He has to digest for sure because it’s a dream for a lot of players to play with this kind of club,” Sage said.

“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.”

Sarr has yet to feature for Palace this season because of a groin injury and will miss Saturday’s Premier League trip to Fulham.

His absence came amid growing speculation about his future, with reports suggesting he was disappointed that Palace would not sanction his departure. His agent, former Senegal international Diomansy Kamara, has since criticised the treatment of African players during transfer negotiations.

Palace also attempted to strengthen their attack before the transfer deadline by pursuing Belgium international Malick Fofana.

However, the 21-year-old opted to leave Lyon for Sunderland in a deal reported to be worth £30m.

“We gave our best,” Sage said of the negotiations. “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 have lost their opening two Premier League matches of the season, against Everton and Manchester City, and will look to get their first points when they visit Fulham.

Fulham are also searching for their first league points after defeats by Chelsea and Sunderland.