Boxing Day’s opening fixture is made all the more intriguing by Sam Allardyce’s recent arrival as Crystal Palace manager.
So often a godsend for Fantasy Football managers, Allardyce will surely bring improved solidity and a sprinkling of set-piece goals, promoting interest in a number of their assets – notably defender Scott Dann.
But can he have an instant impact at Watford?
The Hornets are, in many respects, an ideal first opponent for Big Sam’s Eagles.
A most inconsistent outfit, Walter Mazzarri’s side have lost four of their last five and have gone seven outings without a clean sheet.
Notably, Watford have also allowed nine goals from corners this season, more than any other side. That presents an early opportunity for Allardyce and Dann to live up to their reputations.
