Southampton boss Mark Hughes expects a tough challenge against Crystal Palace this weekend.

While Southampton won in south London last season to inflict the first defeat of Roy Hodgson's tenure, Hughes knows his side face a tougher test this time.

"They are a very good side and Roy has been there a decent amount of time and you see his imprint on the team," Hughes said.

"They will be well organised and well drilled and eh knows what he wants from his teams and they have good talent sprinkled in there.

"They have a physical threat with (Christian) Benteke and good technical ability with (Wilfried) Zaha and pace in full back areas. It's a well balanced team and they will do well this year."

And Hughes knows Wilfried Zaha will ask questions of his defence.

"It looks like he's comfortable in his surroundings. I think he's a local boy and happy to have that support around him and it allow him to affect games in a positive way.

"The key is maybe to stop him getting the ball in the first place but if he is then keep him away from the danger areas."