Ghana international attacker Jordan Ayew lost his automatic starting role at Aston Villa as he watched the entire proceedings of Villa's 2-1 loss at Crystal Palace from the bench.
Jordan, 23, had started both of Villa's opening games since the opening of day of the English Premier League but lost his place to Benin international Rudy Gestede who replaced him in the squad.
English international forward Gabriel Agbonlahor who started had reportedly claimed he felt comfortable partnering with Gestede and Villa boss Tim Sherwood partnered the pair at the Selhurst Park.
Palace, who had an earlier goal disallowed when James McArthur was adjudged offside, went ahead when Scott Dann headed in Jason Puncheon's corner.
Villa levelled when Eagles defender Pape Souare deflected the ball into his own net after Adama Traore's run.
But Sako, who had twice been denied by keeper Brad Guzan, netted a fine winner after Jordan Amavi had lost the ball.