Crystal Palace's defensive struggles have become the Premier League's worst, conceding 19 goals in eight games. The pressure on manager Pierre Sage intensified after a 2-0 home defeat by Newcastle United on Saturday.

Pierre Sage, the 47-year-old Frenchman who replaced Oliver Glasner on a three-year deal, blamed a 15-minute lapse after half-time for the latest loss. "The noise is the consequence of the result of the team, and at the moment we don't have what we expect," Sage said. He added that the best form of defence is to have the ball, but his side ranks among the three promoted clubs for the lowest average possession in the league.

Sage's mounting challenges

The defeat leaves Palace with just seven points from their opening eight matches, sitting in the relegation zone. They have failed to win any of their last four league outings, a run that includes a 5-0 thrashing by Brighton. Their sole clean sheet this season came in a goalless draw at Leeds United.

Analysts have pointed to a need for greater ruthlessness. Former England forward Dion Dublin suggested Sage needed to be tougher, while pundit Lucy Ward noted that being too nice does not help in a relegation battle. Despite the external criticism, Sage insists his position is secure. "There is no noise inside the club," he said, confirming he remains in regular contact with chairman Steve Parish.

A pattern of fragility

The defensive issues are a stark contrast to Sage's reputation. Last season, he was named Ligue 1 manager of the year after leading Lens to a second-place finish with one of France's best defensive records. At Selhurst Park, the problems are persistent. In their midweek Europa League draw with Besiktas, they conceded two goals from the only two shots on target they faced. A similar pattern unfolded against Newcastle, who scored with both of their efforts on target in the second half.

Newcastle manager Matthias Jaissle, who secured his first win in three games, said keeping a clean sheet is a fundamental of football. His side executed that plan perfectly after a tight first half, scoring twice in the first 11 minutes after the restart. Alexander Isak led the line with a clinical display, while Bradley Barcola provided an assist for a second straight game.

Palace's next chance to address their form comes with a daunting trip to face Tottenham Hotspur next Saturday.

Read the full report at bbc.co.uk