Chelsea will host Southampton at Stamford Bridge on Saturday afternoon as both teams look to build on what they managed to achieve prior to the international break.
The Blues looked as though they were starting to click after they dispatched Crystal Palace at the Bridge with a 4-0 victory. The attack certainly appeared to be looking to gel together.
Saints, though, have been on their own good run of form and have managed to record back-to-back victories ahead of this contest, thus providing all the ingredients of a great clash.
Frank Lampard’s side will likely be considered to be favourites for the match, however it should be remembered that Southampton recorded a 2-0 victory the last time they played in west London against the Blues on Boxing Day 2019. Therefore, it could be like playing a game of the best online roulette, because, as we have seen, almost anything can happen in the Premier League.
Chelsea likely to improve on recent run
Chelsea, though, have improved since that surprise defeat when it comes down to home form. The Blues have won seven of their last eight Premier League matches at Stamford Bridge and have started to build it as the fortress many have known it to be. The only sides they did lose to at home in 2020 so far involve Bayern Munich, Manchester United and Liverpool.
The Blues have also conceded the fewest home goals than any other side in the top-flight since the beginning of the 2019/20 campaign – despite the concerns surrounding Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Goals are likely to be scored at Stamford Bridge
Speaking of Arrizabalga, the Spaniard may return to the side as Edouard Mendy picked up an injury whilst on international duty with Senegal – as did Ben Chilwell with England.
A change to the back five could prove nervy and Danny Ings will want to test it as much as he can as he looks to continue his own fine form in front of goal for the Saints.
The problem for Ralph Hasenhuttl, though, will be his defence as they have shipped eight goals in their last five matches. Chelsea have scored 15 goals this season already.
Giroud continues to impress and enjoys playing against the Saints
Olivier Giroud continues to impress in the limited minutes he gets at this stage of his career, whether it be for Chelsea or France.
Whilst his future continues to come into question, the forward continues to find the back of the net. He bagged a brace for his country in the international break and he appears to love playing against Southampton; just as much as bettors enjoy playing casinos en ligne when they can!
Giroud has managed to score four goals and provide one assist in his last four Premier League outings against the Saints; he has only scored more against Aston Villa and Newcastle United since playing his football in England.
With Chelsea starting their UEFA Champions League campaign next week, Lampard will likely rotate and Giroud could be handed his opportunity. A fragile Southampton defence may completely collapse if the experienced forward does get his chance.
