Bournemouth, riding high in fifth place, will host a struggling Crystal Palace side at the Vitality Stadium in a Premier League clash on Boxing Day.

The Cherries are in fine form, having won four of their last five league matches, including a 3-0 thrashing of Manchester United last time out. Goals from Dean Huijsen, Justin Kluivert, and Antoine Semenyo sealed the impressive victory for Bournemouth, who are now just three points off a Champions League spot.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola will be without injured trio Alex Scott, Julian Araujo, and Marcos Senesi for the visit of Crystal Palace. However, Lewis Cook could replace Adam Smith at right-back after coming on as a substitute against United.

On the other hand, Crystal Palace are in desperate need of points as they sit 16th in the table, just four points above the relegation zone. The Eagles have lost their last two matches against Arsenal in both the Premier League and EFL Cup.

The good news for Palace is that England international Eberechi Eze is likely to return to the squad after missing the Arsenal defeat. Daniel Munoz is also available again after serving his suspension. However, Adam Wharton continues to struggle with a groin issue.

Predicted Bournemouth starting XI: (4-2-3-1)

Arrizabalaga;

Cook, Zabarnyi, Huijsen, Kerkez;

Adams, Christie;

Semenyo, Kluivert, Ouattara;

Evanilson

Predicted Crystal Palace starting XI: (3-4-3)

Henderson;

Chalobah, Lacroix, Guehi;

Munoz, Hughes, Lerma, Mitchell;

Eze, Nketiah, Mateta

I anticipate victory for the in-form Bournemouth, who have been solid at home this season, conceding just seven goals in eight Premier League matches at the Vitality Stadium.

The return of Eze should provide a boost for Crystal Palace, but the Cherries’ recent momentum may prove too much for the struggling visitors.