Sam Allardyce believes Swansea game is vital to Crystal Palace's survival hopes

Monday 2 January 2017 11:29, UK

Sam Allardyce has pinpointed Tuesday's game against Swansea City as vital to Crystal Palace's survival hopes.

Sunday's 2-0 defeat at Arsenal left Allardyce's new club in 17th place and with a total of only 16 points from 19 games.

But the former England manager does not feel games against the division's leading sides will be significant for any of the teams fighting relegation, and that it is the results secured against those clubs around them which will define Palace's season.

"Our players need to get ready for Swansea on Tuesday night - that's the big game they need to win," said Allardyce.

"Watching Premier League football this year, the top six are so much better than last year so it's always hard to pick up points against them.

"Our big game's on Tuesday, there's no doubt about it. We're going to survive by beating teams in the bottom half.

"If we get a victory against one of the top boys that'll be the added bonus to get us safe quicker.

"It's been so long since Palace have gone on an extended run of good results."

Christian Benteke, Andros Townsend and Yohan Cabaye were the three players Allardyce substituted at Arsenal and each is expected to retain their place against Swansea.

The manager also has Damien Delaney available again after suspension, and could consider changes after speaking of his disappointment at their performance at the Emirates.

On Sunday Palace were as poor as they were at any stage under Allardyce's predecessor Alan Pardew, but asked if he has found the job more difficult than he expected, he responded: "Not really.

"It's only two games.

"I'll know by the end of the window (how difficult a task survival is). Two things have to happen for the team to get better and produce results."