Crystal Palace head coach Pierre Sage says Ismaila Sarr will need time to come to terms with the collapse of his proposed transfer to Liverpool during the final days of the summer window.

The Senegal forward, who finished as Crystal Palace's top scorer last season, had been strongly linked with a move to Anfield before ultimately remaining at Selhurst Park.

"He has to digest for sure because it's a dream for a lot of players to play with this kind of club. 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."

Sage, who is French, was measured in his assessment, adding: "Like every bad situation, time does the job and we need time for that."

Injury keeping Sarr on the sidelines

Sarr, 28, has not featured for Crystal Palace this season. A groin injury ruled him out of Premier League defeats against Everton and at home to Manchester City, and he will also miss Saturday's away fixture at Fulham, scheduled for kick-off at 15:00 BST.

Fofana pursuit ends in disappointment

With uncertainty surrounding Sarr's situation, Crystal Palace moved to pursue Belgium forward Malick Fofana on deadline day. However, the 21-year-old opted to join Sunderland from Lyon in a deal reported to be worth £30 million.

Sage acknowledged the club's efforts in those negotiations: "We gave our best. 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."

Fulham also searching for first points

Saturday's opponents Fulham arrive at their own ground — or rather, Crystal Palace travel to them — equally desperate for a result. Fulham are yet to take a Premier League point this season after losing their opening two fixtures at home to Chelsea and away at Sunderland.