Chelsea subdued a spirited Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup semifinal to give Antonio Conte a taste of his first major final in England. But in the Premier League, they are in a very tricky situation and will host Southampton at the Stamford Bridge. Looking at the current scenario, Chelsea cannot afford to lose as it will give Tottenham Hotspur a chance to pounce on their mistakes.
Chelsea should be confident after their dominating win over the North London giants in the FA Cup but any sort of complacency could be a problem for Antonio Conte’s side.
Southampton will be coming to London following their defeat to Manchester City. Despite having a talented pool of players, Claude Puel’s side has suffered from inconsistency throughout this term. But they do possess an impressive record against Chelsea at the Stamford Bridge. In the last four meetings at the Stamford Bridge, the Saints have managed to hijack points on three occasions including a 3-1 win in the last season.
Team News And Predicted Lineups
Chelsea
Chelsea captain Gary Cahill has partially recovered from illness and has the slightest chance to feature in the match.
If he doesn’t get fit, Nathan Ake will once again be deployed in his place.
Courtois; Ake, Luiz, Azpilicueta, Alonso, Kante, Fabregas, Moses; Pedro, Costa, Hazard
Southampton
Puel will be without his most influential defender Virgil Van Dijk who is still recuperating from a knee injury.
Matt Targett and Charlie Austin is expected to resume training but will not take a part in that match.
Sam McQueen is a doubtful starter.
Forster; Bertrand, Yoshida, Stephens, Soares; Romeu, Davis, Ward-Prowse; Boufal, Gabbiadini, Redmond
Key Players
Chelsea
Eden Hazard
The Belgian player started from the bench in the FA Cup semifinal but Conte had to introduce him as Chelsea were lacking that cutting edge. Hazard made Spurs defence standstill as he placed a superb ball between a host of players to give Chelsea the chance to do a double. He has been the best player for the Blues in this season and he needs to do the talking with the ball if Chelsea are to win this match to maintain their stronghold at the top.
Southampton
Manolo Gabbiadini
The Italian national has been battling with injuries and will be making his second start in a row. The 25-year old’s rise to prominence has already hogged the limelight and he will have another chance to show his superlative display.
Odds-
Chelsea- 9/20
Draw- 18/5
Southampton- 15/2
