Southampton vs. Crystal Palace: Opposition threat

LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 28: Andros Townsend of Crystal Palace (C) celebrates as he scores their first and equalising goal with team mates Wilfried Zaha and Jeffrey Schlupp during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Arsenal at Selhurst Park on December 28, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images) /

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LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 28: Wilfried Zaha of Crystal Palace reacts during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Arsenal at Selhurst Park on December 28, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images) /

Wilfried Zaha

The most obvious Palace threat is Wilfried Zaha, who has sparkled since his return from injury in October. The Ivory Coast man recently refuted interest from Tottenham and pledged his allegiance to the Eagles in a post-match interview after the scintillating draw with Manchester City.

Zaha’s pace and direct style is likely to cause the rusty Jeremy Pied problems in the absence of his teammate Cedric Soares. The ex-Manchester United man has scored four goals and contributed one assist this season, drawing praise from teammates and pundits alike.

If the midfielder in front of Pied can provide adequate defensive cover, it should be enough to nullify the threat of Zaha at the expense of an attacking threat.