Crystal Palace have identified Tottenham legend Robbie Keane as a potential replacement for Pierre Sage.

Crystal Palace are considering Tottenham icon Robbie Keane as Pierre Sage’s potential replacement following a disappointing start to the Premier League season, with the Eagles assessing contingency plans. According to talkSPORT, Palace are exploring managerial options amid growing pressure on Sage, whose side have slipped to 17th in the table after losing five of their opening eight league matches.

Their latest setback came in a 2-0 home defeat to Newcastle United, with supporters booing the team off the pitch at Selhurst Park. The Frenchman’s move to South London after an impressive Lens campaign, Ligue 1 runners-up, has not translated smoothly.

The players have struggled to adapt to his methods, and the fact that they also have European football on their plate has made things harder for the manager. Sage has insisted he retains the backing of the club’s hierarchy, though chairman Steve Parish is reportedly considering alternatives should results worsen.

Defensive problems have been particularly costly for Crystal Palace. They have conceded 19 goals in their opening eight league matches, the highest tally in the division. Scoring goals has not been that big a problem as they have found the back of the net on nine occasions.

The team’s inability to keep opponents at bay has become a major concern as they look to climb away from the relegation zone. Former Burnley manager Sean Dyche, ex-Tottenham boss Thomas Frank, and Vitor Pereira are among the names being considered.

Robbie Keane could be handed the Crystal Palace job

Keane has also been a candidate for Palace in recent months, and the revived interest offers an alternative to managers with extensive Premier League experience. The 46-year-old has been without a managerial position since leaving Hungarian club Ferencvaros in the summer.

Although the Irishman’s coaching experience remains relatively limited, he enjoyed a productive spell with the club, averaging 2.07 points per game across 82 matches. The former Republic of Ireland international enjoyed a lengthy playing career in English football, including a successful spell at Tottenham, giving him a strong understanding of the demands of the Premier League.

Appointing the former Tottenham striker would pose a considerable challenge for Crystal Palace, given the scale of the managerial task facing whoever takes charge. The Eagles need to address their defensive shortcomings quickly, and a new manager would have little time to turn results around.

For now, Palace have not confirmed any decision to part ways with Sage, who continues to insist he has the club’s support. However, with contingency plans reportedly being prepared, Keane remains under consideration if the hierarchy decides a change is necessary.