Photo: AP

Antonio Conte will be up against Crystal Palace manager Sam Allardyce for the first time on Saturday afternoon, and he has revealed his respect for the former England boss.

“I knew him on my travels, I stayed with him for two days at West Ham, I talked with him,” Conte said.

“He is a top coach, it is a shame he was sacked as the coach of the national team after one game, because I know the honour to be the coach of a national team. It will be a great pleasure to see him.”

To his credit, Allardyce has justified his appointment as manager of Palace and has made them a difficult side to beat, having guided them safely away from relegation waters.

Crystal Palace have won their last three games and hasn’t conceded a goal this month.