Mission accomplished for Sakho at Palace

Mamadou Sakho claims it was job done for him at Crystal Palace and insists he has loved his time at Selhurst Park.

Sakho joined on loan from Liverpool in the final minutes of the January transfer window, and has become an instant favourite with Eagles fans.

The towering defender only made eight appearances, with injury limiting his opportunities somewhat, but was a behemoth at the back and helped secure Palace’s Premier League status.

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They only lost twice in games that he featured in and as he prepares to return to Anfield, the Frenchman will reflect on his time in south London fondly.

“I have really enjoyed my time here because I have had the opportunity to play with some great players in a really good squad,” said Sakho.

“It is a club with really good owners, manager and stadium. The objective to stay up is now done and I am really happy about that as I came here for one mission and we can all enjoy having done that.

“We have come a long way and I am really happy with the way the players have believed in themselves.”

So impressive has Sakho been in his brief spell at Palace that he was shortlisted for their player of the season award.

But the centre-back is adamant he was pleased to see the gong ultimately be given to tricky winger Wilfried Zaha instead.

“From a personal point of view I was really surprised to be on the shortlist but Wilf deserved to win it and congratulations to him for that,” added Sakho.

“He has been at the club since he was a youngster so it’s good for him.”