Big Sam Gets Boost From Former Toon Striker

Last updated : 07 January 2017 By Footy Mad - Editor

Sam Allardyce has backed Crystal Palace debutant Loic Remy to boost the Eagles' Premier League survival fight.

Image result for Loic Remy  newcastleFit-again France striker Remy is finally ready for his Palace bow after thigh and calf problems, having joined the Selhurst Park club on loan from Chelsea in August.

Allardyce has admitted he will make a raft of changes for Saturday's third round FA Cup clash at his former club Bolton, with Julian Speroni potentially in line to set a new club-record 389 appearances.

Christian Benteke will miss the Bolton trip with shoulder trouble but could be fit in time for the Premier League trip to West Ham on January 14.

"If he can hit the form and heights he's hit in the Premier League before he could lift the team and be a big goal-scoring threat," said Allardyce of Chelsea loan star Remy.

"Particularly the goals he has scored in the past and with his use of pace, he could work well, alongside the other goalscorers we've already got in the squad.

"He'll play some part of the game, but it's like a pre-season for him in his first competitive game.

"Obviously match practice is lacking, but his general fitness is good.

"But there's no better chance than the FA Cup to get a competitive run out."