Crystal Palace vs. Southampton: Opposition threats

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SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 21: Joel Ward of Crystal Palace takes on Matt Targett of Southampton during the EFL Cup Third Round match between Southampton and Crystal Palace at St Mary’s Stadium on September 21, 2016 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images) /

After losing at home to Watford last weekend, Southampton have a chance to regain some lost confidence against a struggling Crystal Palace on Saturday.

It has been a busy week at Selhurst Park, with Roy Hodgson taking over from the harshly sacked Frank de Boer, who failed to register any points with Palace in his four games in charge.

De Boer was of course a link for the Southampton job throughout the summer, but joined the south London club instead with the ambition of transforming them into a passing side.

77 days later and the Dutchman was sacked. Now it is down to former England boss Roy Hodgson to keep the Eagles in the Premier League.

It is always difficult coming up against a side with a new manager, especially away from home, and Southampton have a huge task on their hands. Hodgson will get Palace back to the basics this weekend, and play some no-nonsense football, but who will be the key threats against the Saints? Luke Dennis takes a look.