Crystal Palace supporters have urged Pierre Sage to give David Ozoh a proper first-team opportunity during pre-season rather than allow the midfielder to leave.
Ozoh has returned to Selhurst Park following a productive loan spell with Derby County, where he made 35 appearances across all competitions and scored twice.
The 21-year-old now enters a crucial summer. Palace must decide whether he can compete for a place in Sage’s midfield or would benefit from another move away.
Ozoh has chance to change Palace plans
Palace supporters named Ozoh among the returning players they most want to watch during pre-season, alongside Danny Imray and Matheus França.
One fan described him as “a dynamic player in the making who we cannot afford to let go” and called on Sage to recognise his potential. Others also highlighted Cheick Doucouré’s return and the need to give academy players meaningful opportunities.
The supporter comments published ahead of Palace’s pre-season programme underline the interest in Ozoh’s next step. He now has senior Championship experience and offers the physicality Palace sometimes lack in central midfield.
ReadCrystalPalace previously examined why Ozoh could provide an internal replacement for Jefferson Lerma. His ability to win duels, carry the ball and protect the defence gives Sage a different option alongside Adam Wharton and Will Hughes.
Reports have also linked Ozoh with a permanent return to Derby, so pre-season may shape Palace’s final decision. Sage needs to assess whether the midfielder can handle Premier League and Europa League demands before approving any departure.
Ozoh does not need to establish himself as an automatic starter immediately. A strong summer could still convince Palace that he deserves a place in the senior squad rather than another season away.
