Jesurun Rak-Sakyi wasn’t on the plane for the US tour with Crystal Palace, but now the real reason has been revealed.
For the Eagles, if there is one player who has impressed through pre-season, it’s Jesurun Rak-Sakyi with his three goals in two games.
The talented winger clearly impressed Oliver Glasner, as he managed to start against Crawley ahead of Jordan Ayew and Jeffrey Schlupp – both of whom are for sale.
But his absence from the squad heading to the United States was a shock and had many believing the writing was on the wall in regards to a summer loan exit.
While this is still a likely outcome, the true reason he missed the tour has now been revealed.
- READ MORE: Crystal Palace confirmed signings, transfer ins and outs, loans and releases for 2024 summer window
Why Rak-Sakyi wasn’t on the US tour
When Crystal Palace headed out to the United States earlier this week, there was one notable exclusion from the squad that had fans baffled.
Rak-Sakyi had been reported to have stayed home, a move which was said to have shocked the club.
But now we know why, thanks to the reporting of Sky Sports’ Lyall Thomas who explained why he didn’t travel.
Rak-Sakyi is believed to have been unwell when the Eagles were travelling out to the States which is why he wasn’t on the plane.
However, he is now with the squad which suggests he might play a role against West Ham over this coming weekend.
This comes as Leeds, Burnley and Sheffield United are all keen to take the winger on loan in the Championship. Meanwhile, he also has interest from Europe with Anderlecht and Lyon showing a fondness.
Southampton’s interest remains with the Saints eyeing a permanent move this summer or next – but Palace aren’t believed to be keen on this.
Palace should keep Rak-Sakyi
Like much of the fanbase, we have been impressed by Rak-Sakyi’s pre-season outings to date and think he is ready to play a part for the Eagles this coming season.
While Ismaila Sarr has been signed, Rak-Sakyi has shown enough to be considered the backup to the Senegal winger – a role which would give him a significant amount of game time.
With potential exits for Ayew and Schlupp, the pathway to doing this is clear for the talent and we’d be keen for him to be used.
However, ultimately if Glasner doesn’t think he’ll get enough game-time then we just hope that wherever he goes on loan is a good fit – Leeds could be absolutely perfect and allow him to shine.
