Sage confirms Crystal Palace injury boost and gives update on Sarr

Crystal Palace boss Pierre Sage says Jørgen Strand Larsen is ready to start against Liverpool as the Eagles prepare to cope without the suspended Jean-Philippe Mateta.

Strand Larsen was an unused substitute in Thursday’s Europa League draw with Hoffenheim after recovering from injury, but Sage believes the striker is now capable of playing a significant part on Sunday.

“He didn’t play because the scenario of the game was not positive for him to have the possibility to let him play,” Sage said.

“But I think he’s able to play 60, 75 minutes and with the head and the stamina, maybe he can push this.”

Mateta will miss the Premier League clash after being sent off against Tottenham last weekend, leaving Strand Larsen and Eddie Nketiah as the main options to replace him.

“As you know, JP was injured at the beginning of the season,” Sage said.

“There was the opportunity for Jørgen Strand Larsen and Eddie Nketiah to play. That’s why he will miss the game, but we have to deal with it.

“We have big confidence in the other players. They’ve shown they are able to play and they are able to compete.

“We need them in the play, we need them to press, we need them to score, to finalise the offensive play.

“Jørgen showed that against Ipswich and against Lech Poznań, that’s why we know he’s able to score. Eddie scored against Fulham, he scored against Lech Poznań too, and Eddie is able to play as a No. 10 too.

“That’s why we will see what will happen on Sunday – but we have some solutions.”

Sage also confirmed Ismaïla Sarr is not expected to return until after the international break.

“He will come back after the international break,” he added.