Crystal Palace to make at least one change as Disasi suspended for Leeds trip
Crystal Palace are expected to make at least one change from their last Premier League outing against Ipswich for the trip to Leeds, with Axel Disasi unavailable after beginning a three-match suspension. Pierre Sage must decide who replaces him in the back three, while Ismaïla Sarr could make his first Premier League start of the season after returning from injury.
- Competition: Premier League
- Fixture: Leeds vs Crystal Palace
- Key absence: Axel Disasi (suspended, three matches)
- Replacement options: Takehiro Tomiyasu or Jaydee Canvot
- Fitness doubt: Ismaïla Sarr (not fit for 90 minutes)
- Also pushing to start: Eddie Nketiah
Injury and availability
Axel Disasi is unavailable after beginning a three-match suspension. The defender was sent off in Palace's 3-2 defeat to Ipswich last weekend. Ismaïla Sarr is not yet fit enough to play the full 90 minutes but is "maybe" ready to start according to Sage, having returned as a substitute against Lech Poznan in midweek. Eddie Nketiah is another player pushing to return to the starting XI.
What was said
"maybe"
Sage's cautious phrasing suggests Sarr remains short of full match sharpness, even though a first Premier League start of the season is on the table. The manager's hesitation points to a possible bench role, with a view to building minutes gradually.
Why Sage faces a defining decision in defence
Disasi's suspension forces Sage to reshuffle a back three that conceded three against Ipswich. Tomiyasu offers experience and defensive solidity, while Canvot represents a younger, more aggressive option. The choice will shape how Palace build from the back at Elland Road, especially if Leeds press high.
Further forward, Sarr's potential inclusion adds pace on the flank, but his lack of full fitness means Sage may prefer to use him as an impact substitute. Nketiah's push for a start gives Sage another attacking dilemma, suggesting he could rotate his front line to keep legs fresh.
Talking points
- Should Sage trust Tomiyasu's experience or give Canvot a chance to impress in a hostile away environment?
- Is it worth risking Sarr from the start when he cannot complete 90 minutes, or is a bench role more sensible?
- Does Nketiah deserve a recall after pushing for a return, and who makes way if he starts?
- Can Palace's makeshift defence cope with Leeds' attack after shipping three goals against Ipswich?
What happens next
Sage will finalise his line-up before kick-off at Elland Road. With Disasi out for three matches, the next few games will test Palace's defensive depth and could determine whether they maintain their Premier League momentum.
Frequently asked questions
Is Axel Disasi suspended for Leeds vs Crystal Palace?
Yes, Disasi is unavailable after beginning a three-match suspension following his red card against Ipswich.
Will Ismaïla Sarr start for Crystal Palace against Leeds?
Sarr is "maybe" ready to start according to Pierre Sage, but he is not yet fit enough to play the full 90 minutes.
Who could replace Disasi in Palace's defence?
Takehiro Tomiyasu and Jaydee Canvot have been the options discussed to come into the back three.
Related Articles
Filed under: Predicted Lineups | LA Premier League Home
