Report: Former Crystal Palace defender emerges as surprise contender to replace Pierre Sage

Former Crystal Palace defender and current Australia head coach Tony Popovic has emerged as a surprise candidate to replace Pierre Sage at Selhurst Park. Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish has reportedly decided to dismiss Sage after 16 matches in charge, following a 3-1 home defeat against Liverpool that left the Eagles at the bottom of the Premier League table.

While former Tottenham manager Thomas Frank is viewed as the early frontrunner, Palace are also considering Popovic among their alternatives. The 53-year-old previously made over 120 appearances for Palace as a player and served as an assistant manager under Dougie Freedman in 2011.