Sarr still absent after missing out on Anfield

By the Editorial Team · Friday, September 11, 2026

Ismaila Sarr has not yet returned to Crystal Palace’s first-team training following the collapse of his transfer to Liverpool and will miss the upcoming match against Ipswich. Meanwhile, midfielder Cheick Doucoure has resumed training after illness, but his fitness for the game is still being evaluated by the coaching staff.

Ismaila Sarr has yet to rejoin Crystal Palace’s first-team training following the collapse of his proposed transfer to Liverpool, according to Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage. The club’s top scorer last season missed all five of Palace’s matches this campaign and will be unavailable for Saturday’s home game against Ipswich.

Sage explained that Sarr needed time to process the failed move, which had drawn significant interest from Liverpool. The manager had anticipated Sarr returning to training on Monday but confirmed the forward was still absent. However, he expressed optimism that Sarr would resume training with the first team the following Monday, emphasizing the club’s intention to have him back on the pitch as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, Palace midfielder Cheick Doucoure has returned to training after recovering from illness. Sage noted that Doucoure participated in sessions on Thursday and Friday and appeared ready for selection, although the coaching staff would assess his fitness given the recent congested fixture schedule. Doucoure’s availability for the upcoming match remains under review as Palace prepares to host Ipswich at Selhurst Park.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.