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Crystal Palace boss Sam Allardyce opens up about Chelsea win ahead of Southampton clash
AFTER three months of heartache, Sam Allardyce is looking forward to waking up in the morning once more.
Crystal Palace boss Sam Allardyce admits he was able to enjoy himself after beating Chelsea
Crystal Palace's win over Chelsea last Saturday has put the bounce back in the step of Sam Allardyce and he takes his side to Southampton tonight on an unbeaten run of four matches.
"After beating Chelsea I was able to enjoy the dressing room and share in the joy of it all. We haven't been able to share much of that this season because we've lost too many games," he said.
"There was so much emotion afterwards and that's why it becomes your whole life. You milk and savour the moment, look forward to waking up next day and saying, 'What a victory'.
"I've never really lost my joie de vivre but when you lose matches it's hard to portray a flamboyant or an upbeat mood. Nobody really knows me apart from the players and the staff here and what I'm like. They see me when I walk through the door, or I'm in the dressing room. That's the real me and the rest is all false."
Claude Puel has warned his Southampton players to be aware of the relegation zone
Southampton manager Claude Puel, meanwhile, has warned his players they still need to look over their shoulders towards the relegation zone.
Saints are seven points clear of the drop zone with 10 games to play but Puel said: "The gap between six, seven, eight teams is very short with the number of points. This is why it's important to stay careful."
Saints will again be without in-form Italian striker Manolo Gabbiadini due to injury while record buy Sofiane Boufal is also doubtful.