Dowie faces Symons decision

Iain Dowie faces a major selection dilemma ahead of his first match in charge of Crystal Palace.

Kit Symons is available after suspension and Dowie must decide whether to recall his predecessor for the Boxing Day derby at home to Millwall.

The defender, who spent the last two months as caretaker manager, was said to be "very demoralised" after being overlooked for the fulltime position. Sitting out the Millwall-game would be another blow, but Dowie admits it will be difficult to alter a defence which did so well in the 3-0 win at Reading.

He said: "I had nothing to do with Kit not getting the job. The team should be picked on merit."

Full-back Jamie Smith has recovered from a hamstring injury, but centre-back Darren Powell (thigh) is still out.

Like Palace, Millwall hit top form on Saturday, beating Cardiff 3-1 at Ninian Park.

The Lions will be without banned defender Kevin Muscat but Neil Harris is likely to start after the striker suffered no reaction to his ankle injury during his comeback game at Cardiff.

Midfielder Marvin Elliott, who made an impressive full debut on Saturday, is also expected to play.