Crystal Palace news: Sage targets attacking reset before Hoffenheim clash

Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage has used extra training time to work on his side’s attacking play before Thursday’s Europa League meeting with Hoffenheim.

Palace host the German club at Selhurst Park at 5.45pm GMT, with Sage seeking a better balance between their defensive work and their threat in possession.

The manager said his team had spent too much of their recent matches defending without producing the attacking football they had prepared.

What Pierre Sage wants Crystal Palace to change

Speaking to Palace’s official website, Sage explained that training had focused on building attacks and finding space behind the opposition’s defensive line.

“The responsibility is on me,” he said.

A less congested preparation period has allowed Palace to revisit details that were harder to address while moving quickly from one match to the next.

Sage was encouraged by the players’ work during those sessions, but the test is whether that improvement carries into Thursday’s performance.

Palace seek another Europa League home win

Palace have four points from their opening three league-phase matches. Their first home game in the competition brought a 4-0 victory over Lech Poznan.

Sage believes further wins can put qualification within reach, although there is no guaranteed points total that secures progress.

Thursday’s match is Palace’s eighth in 25 days, according to BBC Sport’s press conference summary.

Timber and Strand Larsen give Sage more options

Quinten Timber and Jorgen Strand Larsen are available again after injury, increasing Sage’s options in midfield and attack.

Neither has been confirmed as a starter. Their return gives Palace more flexibility as they attempt to turn their training work into a stronger attacking display.

For confirmed line-ups and match updates, follow our Crystal Palace vs Hoffenheim match centre.