sentences:  Sage began his career as an apprentice professional with his hometown club, Gillingham, turning professional in 1982.He soon forced his way into the first team and became a regular in the defence, as well as attracting attention from larger clubs.In the 1985-86 season he was an ever-present in the team and named the club's Player of the Year, after which he was snapped up by Derby County, who had just clinched promotion to Division Two, for a fee of £60,000.