​ It was a first-half snapshot from Eddie Nketiah which secured a smash-and-grab win for the Eagles, who gave up 14 shots, four big chances and 1.54 xG.

​However, there were also encouraging defensive signs, an area Sage highlighted when he reviewed the performance.

​“It was important because to win games, to succeed, a small success, but to succeed, it's always important for the team, for the guys who work a lot, to have sometimes the income of what they do.

​“This evening, they gave a lot, and I think they have the little ‘trophy’ they deserved. But we played against a good team too. It was really difficult, especially in the first half. We struggled on our left side because they combined it really well, and we changed some tactical things during half-time.

​“I think we used the ball better in the second half, and we played better in the second half, but today, first of all, we defended well.”

​Sage made 10 changes from last weekend’s defeat at Newcastle, and praised the efforts of those who had come into the side.

​“It’s really important to underline that a lot of players didn’t play too much from the beginning of the season, and it’s always difficult at this time of pressure, and they did the job, which is really important for me because I have more chances now, and more good problems to build the team.”

​The Frenchman also praised Dean Henderson, who returned to the starting lineup for the first time since September 5th and made some crucial saves to earn his side the clean-sheet and victory.

​“He’s a wonderful keeper; he showed it again today. He’s an important captain, and an important person in our dressing room, and we are really happy to see him come back because he is important for the performance of the team too.”​

The biggest story of the night was Cheick Doucouré, who made his first competitive appearance since a 2-0 win over Leicester on January 15th 2025, 651 days ago. The Mali international managed an hour on his comeback, and he received a wonderful standing ovation from the away fans after the game. Sage called it the best part of the evening.