### Clue: Lionel, a hot favourite at Christmas? (7)
### Answer: MESSIAH 
 ### Explanation: Definition: favourite at Christmas
MESSI (L. Messi, Argentinian footballer) + A H[ot]. The "favourite at Christmas" refers to Handel's *Messiah*, which is often performed around Christmas. ("He's not the Messiah, he's a very naughty boy!")