Rob Edwards is in contention to replace Pierre Sage should Crystal Palace decide to sack the under-pressure French manager.
According to a report by Football Insider, Sage is facing severe pressure after a difficult start to the season and reports of internal tension. Should Crystal Palace decide to part ways with him, the club are reportedly prepared to consider Edwards as a potential replacement.
Sage arrived at Selhurst Park with a strong reputation following an impressive spell with RC Lens, during which the Ligue 1 club pushed Paris Saint-Germain close in the Ligue 1 title race. After guiding Lens to a strong finish and helping them return to the Champions League, Sage was attracted by Crystal Palace’s interest.
Palace appointed him on a three-year contract to replace Oliver Glasner, with an important season ahead. However, the campaign has not started well, with Sage overseeing only two wins in five matches across all competitions, including just one victory in the Premier League.
There have also been reports of dressing-room problems, adding to the pressure on Sage and raising the possibility of his dismissal. Should Palace decide to part ways with the French manager, they have reportedly identified 43-year-old former Premier League coach Edwards as a potential replacement.
Is Rob Edwards the right choice?
Edwards has experienced his share of highs and lows in recent years, but his Premier League experience with Luton Town and Wolves could help him secure another top-flight opportunity. He endured difficult spells at Wolves and Middlesbrough, but Palace may view his overall career trajectory as suitable for the club.
Edwards is known for helping teams earn promotion from the Championship, which is also why Birmingham City are reportedly interested in the 43-year-old. However, the opportunity to join an established Premier League club such as Palace would represent a significant step forward in his managerial career.
During Edwards’s spells with Luton Town and Wolves, both clubs were regarded as relegation candidates. That would not be the case at Palace, who possess a talented squad capable of supporting Edwards as he looks to establish himself as a regular Premier League manager.
Although Edwards could welcome the opportunity to manage Palace, the club have yet to make a decision on Sage. Such a decision will not be straightforward, as the Eagles are likely to assess the situation behind the scenes and monitor whether the Frenchman can improve the team’s form before deciding whether to retain or dismiss him.
