Major boost: Ismaïla Sarr set for Crystal Palace return against Lech Poznan

Senegal striker could make first appearance of the season after injury and transfer uncertainty

Ismaïla Sarr is expected to return to the Crystal Palace squad for Thursday’s Europa League meeting with Lech Poznan after missing the opening weeks of the season.

Palace manager Pierre Sage confirmed on Wednesday that the Senegal international could be involved in the match, which is scheduled for 7:00 PM GMT.

“He could be in the squad tomorrow ,” said Frenchman Pierre Sage.

The potential return would bring an end to a difficult period for Sarr, who has not played a single minute this season after combining transfer uncertainty with a groin injury.

Sarr’s return comes after difficult summer

Sarr had wanted to leave Crystal Palace during the summer transfer window, with Liverpool and Galatasaray among the clubs reported to have shown interest in the Senegalese forward.

However, Palace decided against allowing him to depart.

The situation was followed by an injury that kept Sarr out of action during pre-season. His lack of regular training has also delayed his return to competitive football.

Now, after several unsettled weeks, the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations winner is back in training and appears ready to compete for a place in the team.

Sage believes the uncertainty surrounding the player’s future has now passed.

“I think that story is now behind him.”

Pierre Sage backs Sarr to refocus

The Crystal Palace manager said Sarr has returned to training without any apparent problems and is now concentrating on the season ahead.

“I think that whole thing is behind him now,” hopes Pierre Sage. “ He’s training and seems perfectly normal. We’ll see how he performs on the pitch, in competition. I believe he’s now focused on having a good season with us. Could he start against Lech Poznan? It’s possible ,” adds the former RC Lens coach.

Sarr’s involvement against Lech Poznan would therefore represent his first opportunity to contribute on the pitch this season.

The forward is also expected to provide another attacking option for a Palace side preparing for its European campaign.

Crystal Palace hope Sarr can make an impact

Palace are counting on Sarr to rediscover the form he showed during his impressive previous season.

The Senegalese striker enjoyed a strong campaign last year, but his preparations for the new season have been disrupted by the groin problem and the uncertainty surrounding his future.

His return to training now gives Sage the possibility of using him against Lech Poznan, although the manager will decide whether Sarr is ready to start or make his return from the bench.

For Sarr, the immediate focus is now on getting back onto the pitch after a lengthy absence.

For Crystal Palace, his return could provide an important attacking option as they begin their Europa League campaign.

After a summer dominated by questions over his future and a subsequent injury setback, Sarr now has the chance to put that period behind him and focus on football once again.