Crystal Palace v Southampton: can Ronald Koeman's Saints return to winning ways?

A look ahead to the fixture at Selhurst Park

Mark Hayler
Friday 11 December 2015 18:49 GMT
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Southampton manager Ronald Koeman reacts on the touchline
Southampton manager Ronald Koeman reacts on the touchline (Getty Images)

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It’s a big game for…

Graziano Pelle: one point in three games has left Southampton in 12th position. If the saints are to repeat the achievements of last season they will need their Italian striker to hit form soon. With six league goals to his name so far, Pelle will be crucial for Southampton if they are to break out of their bad run.

Key stat…

6: Southampton have won the last six league matches between the two sides. Scott Dann’s goal in the Boxing Day encounter last season is the only goal scored by Crystal Palace in these six games.

Player to watch…

Yannick Bolasie: The Congolese international has scored three goals in his last four Premier League games. Renowned for his skills with the ball, Bolasie has established himself as one of the most entertaining players to watch in the Premier League.

Past three meetings…

Southampton 1 (Mane) Crystal Palace 0 Premier League, March 2015

Southampton 2 (Pelle, Dann OG) Crystal Palace 3 (Chamakh 2, Sanogo) FA Cup, January 2015

Crystal Palace 1 (Dann) Southampton 3 (Mane, Bertrand, Alderweireld) Premier League, December 2014

Form guide…

Crystal Palace

LDWLWD

Southampton

WWLLLD

Vital information…

Kick off time: 15:00, Saturday 12th December.

TV: Highlights shown at 22:20, Saturday 12th December, BBC one

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