PREVIEW: Southampton v Bournemouth

Unavailable: Southampton – Forster, Gardoş, Long, Rodriguez

                       Bournemouth – Wilson, Elphick, Mings, Gradel, Atsu

On Saturday 7 August 2004, as the final whistle sounded on Southampton’s pre-season victory against Chievo Verona, it was announced over the tannoy that Bournemouth had been beaten away at Hull in their League One opening weekend encounter. There were several audible sighs at St Mary’s as a noticeable contingent of Saints fans considered the Dorset club to be their “second team”. Eleven years later, many pundits are billing Sunday’s Premier League game between the two sides as a South Coast derby. It is true that there was a spark in the matches in League One a few years ago, but that was primarily due to their battle at the summit of the table – not their geographical proximity. It is understandable that the Cherries would relish a rivalry with Southampton given their lack of professional neighbouring clubs, however as far as the majority of Saints fans are concerned, there will only ever be one genuine South Coast derby.

Regardless of how you label this match, it promises to be an intriguing encounter between two teams who play football “the right way”. When listening to Eddie Howe, and surveying his achievements on paper, it is hard not to be impressed with the way he has transformed the visitors in recent years. It is a team that has mostly been maintained from the third tier to the Premier League – a feat that Saints know all about. They have had harsh luck with injuries in their inaugural season in the top tier, but the Cherries still pose a significant threat in the way that they set themselves up. Howe’s team possess an excellent balance which gives them the springboard to play such attacking football. Former Saint Andrew Surman’s neat play in the centre is complemented well by the sheer drive of Harry Arter – now returning from injury after missing the first part of the season. The full-backs are also encouraged to support the wingers; both Charlie Daniels and Simon Francis have ably occupied these slots in the last few years. Their recent heavy defeats have not necessarily come as a result of their style of play, they have more likely stemmed from individual mistakes which currently seem to be harming the club’s chances of survival.

Southampton will be in confident mood to punish any errors after overcoming Aston Villa in the second half of their League Cup tie on Wednesday. After giving his fringe players some valuable playing time, Ronald Koeman will be able to bring his regulars back into the fold. Dušan Tadić and Steven Davis put in particularly impressive displays coming off the bench against Villa, while Oriol Romeu also put himself in the frame for a start after a good showing from the combative midfielder. Nevertheless, it is probable that Koeman will put his faith in Jordy Clasie. After a baptism of fire against Leicester, the Dutch international put in a competent performance at Anfield, and this will be another opportunity for him to exhibit his talents in front of a home crowd.

Key Battles

Bertrand v Ritchie: Ryan Bertrand has produced steady form since his return to the team after injury a month ago. He has coped well with difficult opponents, while re-discovering the chemistry that he enjoyed with Tadić down the left wing in the early part of last season. On Sunday, he will have to deny Matt Ritchie who has performed well despite the pressure of being named Bournemouth’s best player last term. Along with scoring a spectacular goal against Sunderland, the former Portsmouth winger has already embarrassed seasoned Premier League left-backs as he saunters down the right side. Bertrand will have to be aware as the winger often cuts in on his stronger left foot, but he can also reach the byline to cross with his right. If the England international is sucked inside by Ritchie, this will allow Francis space to attack – something he will have to be mindful of, as will Tadić who will need to track back.

Pellè v Distin: When Southampton played Everton last December, it is fair to say that Graziano Pellè bullied Sylvain Distin. The former Portsmouth centre-back concentrated all his efforts on stifling the Italian, but he was simply unable to cope with his strength, while he was also frightened by the pace of Shane Long in behind. While he will not have to be concerned with the latter this Sunday, Pellè will peel onto him for every ball that is hit in his direction if he detects any weakness whatsoever – Distin should ask Daley Blind how much of a torrid afternoon you can have at St Mary’s if the target man smells blood.

Possible Line-ups

Southampton: Stekelenburg – Soares, Fonte (C), Van Dijk, Bertrand – Clasie, Wanyama – Mané, S. Davis, Tadić – Pellè

K. Davis, Yoshida, Romeu, Ward-Prowse, Juanmi, Ramírez, Caulker

Bournemouth: Federici – Francis (C), Cook, Distin, Daniels – Ritchie, Arter, Surman, Pugh – King – Murray

Allsop, Gosling, Rantie, Smith, Kermogant, Stanislas, O’Kane

REPORT: Southampton 2 Aston Villa 1

Southampton put in a competent performance to see Aston Villa off at St Mary’s. After a dull first half, Maya Yoshida gave Saints the lead before Graziano Pellè added a second. Scott Sinclair pulled a goal back with a late penalty, but it will be Southampton who face Liverpool in the quarter-final.

Ronald Koeman took a somewhat risky decision in making seven changes to his starting line-up; a tactic that his predecessor Mauricio Pochettino employed to the ire of Saints fans. Nevertheless, he presented an opportunity to fringe players Steven Caulker, Gastón Ramírez and Juanmi. Meanwhile, Villa caretaker manager Kevin MacDonald made five switches with Jordan Amavi and Carlos Sánchez amongst those who earned a starting berth.

In the opening stages of the game, the visitors saw a lot of the ball, as they attempted to utilise an expansive game to perturb Southampton’s changed defence. Caulker was struggling to cope with this, as Rudy Gestede imposed himself as he won a couple of headers, however Maarten Stekelenburg was untroubled. This only changed in the 35^th minute. Leandro Bacuna managed to turn away from Matt Targett who failed to slide in and win the ball, before playing a one-two with Ashley Westwood on the right side of the box, and hit a fierce shot, but Stekelenburg turned it behind for a corner. As the ball was delivered, Ciaran Clark had a free header, but the centre-back sent it well wide of the target.

With a much changed team, Southampton were unable to carve open any opportunities in the first period, as their play was severely disjointed. Targett found it difficult to contain Bacuna and Alan Hutton, and was unable to join Juanmi on the left wing, and while Yoshida is a dependable option at right-back, he was always unlikely to regularly assist Ramírez in putting crosses into the box. Ramírez and Juanmi showed good touches on the ball, but were not providing any real cutting edge. Meanwhile, James Ward-Prowse barely touched the ball occupying the No 10 role, and as such the defensive and attacking midfield were not working well together. In fact, it was the visitors who nearly scored right on half-time. A corner was curled in towards the back post, and it was met by Gestede who had lost Caulker, but the targetman could only head tamely towards Stekelenburg, and the Dutchman blocked the attempt.

Koeman most likely put his opinion across in no uncertain terms regarding the first-half display, and Southampton returned with renewed vigour. In the early stages of the second period, Pellè and Ward-Prowse combined well, before the Italian hit a shot which struck a Villa player before looping over Brad Guzan, and just beyond the far post. Minutes later, Saints were in front. Yoshida played a short pass into Ramírez, before receiving the ball from the Uruguayan, cutting inside and slamming a superb low drive into the bottom corner. Villa replied as Westwood and Gabby Agbonlahor both had efforts that Stekelenburg needed to contend with, but Saints were becoming sharper as the game went on. Pellè’s hold up play was much improved from the first half, and Oriol Romeu was orchestrating the midfield well as he controlled the play.

With 20 minutes remaining, Dušan Tadić and Steven Davis replaced Juanmi and Ramírez, and the two substitutes combined well for what proved to be the winning goal in the 77^th minute. Davis clipped a beautiful long ball to Tadić on the left wing who found Pellè with an expertly dinked pass – the striker peeled off Clark to emphatically volley low past Guzan. Villa did manage to find a consolation goal in added time though. Jordan Ayew drifted past Targett with ease before Van Dijk tripped him – Sinclair slotted the penalty into the corner, but Southampton progressed to the next round of the competition.

Man of the Match

Oriol Romeu: The holding midfielder outshone Victor Wanyama as he returned to the team. Not only a tough tackler, the Spaniard has an eye for a pass, and he has proved himself to be a dependable option for Koeman if called upon.

Teams and Ratings

Southampton

Stekelenburg 7 – Yoshida 7, Caulker 6, Van Dijk 6, Targett 5 – Romeu 7, Wanyama (C) 6 – Ramírez 6 (S. Davis 69’ 7), Ward-Prowse 4, Juanmi 6 (Tadić 69’ 7) – Pellè 6

Goals: Yoshida (51’), Pellè (77’)

Aston Villa

Guzan 6 – Hutton 6, Crespo 6, Clark 6, Richardson 6 – Sánchez 6, Westwood 6 – Bacuna 6 (Ayew 63’ 6), Agbonlahor (C) 5, Amavi 7 (Grealish 63’ 5) – Gestede 7 (Sinclair 72’ 6)

Goals: Sinclair pen. (90’+4)

PREVIEW: Southampton v Aston Villa

Unavailable: Southampton – Forster, Gardoş, Long, Rodriguez, Mané

                        Aston Villa – Clark, Gardner, Okore

This match was predicted to be Tim Sherwood’s last game in charge of Aston Villa by some fans on the South Coast, considering the club seems to have a knack of putting the final nail in the coffin of struggling managers – Glenn Hoddle is a particularly memorable example. Yet on Sunday, the Villa hierarchy decreed that the former Spurs boss was to depart the club there and then. It is therefore caretaker Kevin MacDonald who will be warming the seat for a permanent manager on Wednesday night, leaving the Villa players with a sense of freedom in a competition that they are not expected to thrive in. It is possible that leading candidate Rémi Garde will be watching the contest – either at St Mary’s or remotely, therefore they will be keen to demonstrate their abilities.

Pundits have claimed in recent days that the principal reason for the sacking of Sherwood is an influx of players with a lack of Premier League experience, yet the new additions are talented – they just need time to bed in under the new manager. For example, Idrissa Gueye is a proven performer in Ligue 1, as his defensive play in the midfield allowed the offensive players in front of him to create chances at Lille; he was supposedly a target for Saints before they opted to sign Jordy Clasie. He will have an opportunity to prove himself against Southampton’s prolific attack, but it will be even more of a challenge if he is partnered with Leandro Bacuna – the Dutchman is at home on the right wing; not protecting the back four as he was in Villa’s last encounter against Swansea. In terms of striking options, the West Midlands club opted to add Rudy Gestede to their ranks. The targetman has already made a handful of appearances in the top flight with Cardiff, however he is a different player after forming an excellent understanding with Jordan Rhodes at Blackburn, and was probably Sherwood’s most successful recruit. The Frenchman is a menace in the air who will trouble José Fonte and Virgil van Dijk in the air given the right service. His ability to hold the ball up and bring others into play is also noteworthy, and Ronald Koeman will be wary of the threat that he poses.

The Saints manager will be keen to proceed to the quarter-final, no doubt feeling that he has unfinished business in the competition after bowing out to League One Sheffield United last season. Southampton may find that inconsistency will prove to be their downfall this season, as they once again have to struggle against the adversity that the loss of crucial players brings, therefore a cup run would be a welcome tonic. It also provides a chance for fringe players to come into the team. With Shane Long, Jay Rodriguez and Sadio Mané all missing, enter Gastón Ramírez and Juanmi. The mercurial Uruguayan is rumoured to be earning colossal wages without contributing all too much, although he did go out on loan to Hull last campaign. Now in the final year of his contract, this match gives him the chance to show his worth in the No 10 slot. When he has performed well for Saints on an occasional basis, it has been in this role, with attractive link up play. Juanmi has had limited game time himself despite being an ever present on the bench. His pace could open up a Villa side low on confidence.

Due to the unpredictable nature of line-ups in the League Cup and the uncertainty of Villa’s team selection given their recent managerial change, there will be no ‘Key Battles’ section for this match.

PREVIEW: Liverpool v Southampton

Unavailable: Liverpool – Sturridge, Ings, Gomez, Henderson, Flanagan

                      Southampton – Forster, Gardoş, Long

As Jürgen Klopp readies his team for his inaugural Premier League game at Anfield, he is still waiting for his first win. After leaving Borussia Dortmund, he has bided his time and waited for the opportune moment to take a managerial position, yet he no doubt saw the potential of the Merseyside club instead of a squad which does not currently have the ability to challenge at the very top of the Premier League. Liverpool clearly have the tools to replicate their title challenge of 2014, but Klopp and the infamous transfer committee will have to buy wisely. Until that point, the German will be allowed time due to his unique, engaging character, and the fact that he has inherited a team that is not his own.

Although the new manager does have to find a positive result on Sunday after two draws – one heartening, the other deflating. This game offers him the chance to analyse how his new team perform against a side who will not hesitate to pressure their opponents high up the pitch. Southampton will go to Anfield in search of victory, and Klopp will be wary of how the visitors will attempt to force his defence to make errors, as Saints look to employ the same tactics that were used against them by Leicester last weekend. They will also be glad to see Maarten Stekelenburg back in goal after a nervous display from Kelvin Davis in the match against the Foxes. The back four were unusually hesitant partly due to the change in personnel, and surrendered a comfortable lead.

It is unlikely that this will prove to be a problem this weekend, as the hosts will surely seize the initiative, and Saints will have to find joy on the counter-attack. In matches away at the “big” teams, Ronald Koeman has elected to select Sadio Mané in a central role, and the more conservative Steven Davis on the right wing in a ploy to stretch their opponents. The Northern Ireland captain should be able to restrict the attacking Alberto Moreno, while Mané is far more effective playing in the hole. When chosen on the right side, he offers real pace to his team on the wing, however it does leave the team unbalanced as his crossing ability is not his principal attribute – in contrast with his colleague on the left wing, Dušan Tadić.

Despite Klopp’s many injury problems, he has had positive news in the past week as Roberto Firmino and Christian Benteke are now match fit. While it is debatable whether Firmino can play on the same pitch as Adam Lallana and Philippe Coutinho because they all occupy such similar roles; Benteke’s return provides a real relief, as Divock Origi continues to misfire. José Fonte and Virgil van Dijk will have to prepare themselves for a physical battle, yet the Belgian’s threat will depend on whether his teammates can play to his strengths. He thrived at Villa due to expansive wing play, but Liverpool seem to somewhat neglect this style – favouring likeminded narrow attacking players instead of wingers.

Key Battles

Clyne v Tadić: Nathaniel Clyne is undoubtedly the player who has enjoyed the most success after leaving the South Coast for Merseyside. He has continued his fine form at his new club, despite his side’s early season struggles. Therefore, it is imperative that Tadić tracks back to contain the former Saint. Always willing to support the attack on the overlap, the Serbian will have to contain that threat in order for Southampton to have a fruitful trip to Anfield. If Jay Rodriguez replaces the winger, Clyne may well be troubled should crosses come in from the right wing – the full-back often loses aerial pursuits if pressured by a superior header of the ball at the back post.

Lallana v Wanyama: Lallana has undoubtedly found it difficult to stamp his mark at Liverpool. No longer the principal cog in a team built around him, the midfielder continually struggles to impress at Anfield. He has suffered injury problems, yet the principal issue which remains is that he has been unable to strike up a real understanding with his fellow attacking players. He still has the ability to carve open an opposition’s defence though, and Victor Wanyama will be tasked with denying him the time to trouble the Saints rearguard. The Kenyan was careless in last week’s draw with Leicester, as he picked up an unnecessary booking, signifying that he was unable to assert his authority in the midfield. Yet it has been this type of game when his talents have really come to the fore as he anchors the midfield, against skilled opposition.

Possible Line-ups

Liverpool: Mignolet – Clyne, Škrtel, Sakho, Moreno – Milner (C), Can – Firmino, Lallana, Coutinho – Benteke

Bogdán, Touré, Lucas, Allen, Ibe, Randall, Teixeira

Southampton: Stekelenburg – Soares, Fonte (C), Van Dijk, Bertrand – Wanyama, Ward-Prowse – S. Davis, Mané, Tadić – Pellè

K. Davis, Yoshida, Clasie, Rodriguez, Romeu, Martina, Juanmi

REPORT: Southampton 2 Leicester 2

Leicester fought back to earn a draw at St Mary’s after a disappointing second half display from Southampton. Goals from José Fonte and Virgil van Dijk put Saints in control, but Jamie Vardy scored a brace to hand his side a point.

Ronald Koeman made two switches to his starting line-up, as James Ward-Prowse replaced Oriol Romeu, while Kelvin Davis deputised in goal for the injured Maarten Stekelenburg. Meanwhile, Claudio Ranieri named an unchanged side.

Leicester were first to make an impression on the game as Kelvin Davis flapped at a left-wing cross which was whipped into the box. The visitors continued to pressure their hosts, and Marc Albrighton picked Vardy out with a cross, but the striker lashed the ball into the Chapel. The visitors’ impressive start was not an ideal scenario to ease Kelvin Davis into his first appearance since the tail end of last season, and there was panic in the Saints box once more, as Van Dijk and the veteran ‘keeper got their signals crossed before the ball fell into the club captain’s arms. The Dutch centre-back then nearly opened the scoring down the other end. A Ward-Prowse corner found him at the back post, but his header was cleared off the line. Southampton continued to put their stamp on proceedings, and they found the breakthrough in the 20^th minute. Having been awarded their third corner in a short space of time, Dušan Tadić curled the ball to the near post where Fonte cleverly headed across Kasper Schmeichel and into the far corner.

The hosts began to exert pressure on their opponents from that moment. Steven Davis moved back to aid Victor Wanyama in defensive midfield while Ward-Prowse supported Graziano Pellè, as the Northern Irish captain used his experience to thwart the intricate play of Danny Drinkwater – much of Leicester’s early success had emanated from their midfielder. This allowed Saints’ attacking play to flourish, illustrated once again by Tadić’s relationship with Ryan Bertrand down the left wing, but the home team were still creating little from open play despite being comfortable in possession. This was not proving to be an issue though, as they struck from a set piece once again. Shortly after a corner, Ward-Prowse curled the ball towards the head of Pellè who rose well to meet it, but his effort came off the far post – only for Van Dijk to bundle the ball onto the upright again, before finding the net from close range at the second attempt. The centre-back was stood in an offside position however the assistant referee did not raise his flag. Saints were now cruising, although Leicester did give a warning to their hosts, as Drinkwater drove a shot towards goal from 25 yards out, but Kelvin Davis tipped the ball over the bar.

Claudio Ranieri elected to alter his side at half-time – Jeffrey Schlupp and Shinji Okazaki made way for Riyad Mahrez and Nathan Dyer. This changed the Foxes’ shape, as they formed a 4-2-3-1 as opposed to the 4-4-2 used in the first period; Dyer played on the right wing, Albrighton on the left, with Mahrez now occupying the No 10 role behind Vardy. Yet, it was Southampton who had the chance to kill the game in the 54^th minute. A long ball evaded the Leicester defence and Sadio Mané raced onto it before rounding Schmeichel who had ventured out of his box, but the Senegalese dawdled, and the visitors managed to clear their lines. This proved to be a vital moment in the game, as Leicester began to assert their authority. They were pressing Southampton extremely high, and the hosts were unable to cope – continually conceding possession as the centre-backs could not find a man upfield. Pellè was also having difficulty holding the ball and easing the pressure on his team, when it was successfully lobbed in the Italian’s direction.

On the hour mark, Koeman decided to change his side, with Maya Yoshida replacing Cédric Soares, and Steven Davis making way for Jordy Clasie. The Dutchman struggled to keep up with the pace of the game on his Premier League debut, while Wanyama was cautious in his play having been booked in the first half for a naïve and unnecessary collection of fouls. While Steven Davis had kept Saints ticking over in possession as Leicester began to apply pressure, Clasie seemed to be overawed with the ball continually bypassing the midfielder. Southampton’s lethargic play allowed Leicester more space to create opportunities, and they converted one in the 68^th minute. Former Saint Dyer twisted and turned past Van Dijk, before clipping the ball to Vardy who slammed a low header past Kelvin Davis. The Foxes who have built a reputation as comeback specialists this season were now confident of gaining a point. Mahrez span down the left side of the box before expertly picking Vardy out, but he sent his effort over the bar. Minutes later, Saints had a rare moment of respite, as Mané raced clear just inside Leicester’s half, but the attacker attempted an audacious lob instead of sprinting towards goal. As the game ticked into injury time, the Foxes sensed an equaliser, and it duly arrived. Mahrez slipped the ball past Van Dijk who lost sight of Vardy, and the England international smashed it into the back of the net.

Man of the Match

Riyad Mahrez: The Algerian may have only played 45 minutes, but he exhibited the flair and drive that the Foxes lacked in the first half. Instrumental in orchestrating a second half comeback for the visitors, he continually occupied Southampton’s defence, and provided the perfect pass for Vardy to notch his ninth Premier League goal of the season.

Teams and Ratings

Southampton

K. Davis 5 – Soares 7 (Yoshida 60’ 6), Fonte (C) 6, Van Dijk 5, Bertrand 6 – Wanyama 5, Ward-Prowse 6 – Mané 5, S. Davis 7 (Clasie 60’ 5), Tadić 6 (Rodriguez 75’ 5) – Pellè 5

Goals: Fonte (21'), Van Dijk (37')

Bookings: Wanyama, Bertrand

Leicester

Schmeichel 6 – Simpson 6, Morgan (C) 6, Huth 6, Fuchs 7 – Albrighton 6, Drinkwater 7, Kanté 6, Schlupp 5 (Mahrez 45’ 7) – Vardy 7, Okazaki 6 (Dyer 45’ 6)

Goals: Vardy (66', 90'+1)

PREVIEW: Southampton v Leicester

Unavailable: Southampton – Forster, Gardoş, Long

                        Leicester – James

This week, it transpired that Claudio Ranieri walked into St Mary’s last summer to be interviewed for the then vacant manager’s position, but he will return this Saturday to sit in the visitors’ dugout. The Italian insinuated that he had been offered the job, however Southampton insisted that Ronald Koeman was always their primary target. It is easy to comment in retrospect that the Saints hierarchy made the right decision to appoint the Dutchman, yet he had just ended his tenure at Feyenoord – a similar sized club to Southampton with homegrown players where he had experienced great success, whereas Ranieri had just been sacked by Monaco, a rather different outfit, who had a squad full of vastly seasoned performers such as Dimitar Berbatov.

This is not to say that the Leicester manager is not a talented operator. Dubbed the “tinkerman” by the press during his spell with Chelsea, the Italian was actually ahead of his time. Squad rotation is an intrinsic part of team management – especially when there is a large group of skilled players, such is the case at Stamford Bridge. The Italian has continued this policy at the King Power, highlighted by his decision to rest the prolific Riyad Mahrez for his side’s last game against Norwich. The Algerian was frustrated however his team ran out winners, and he is now chomping at the bit to return.

The Foxes have enjoyed an impressive start to this season, continuing their form from the tail end of last term, when former Saints boss Nigel Pearson led them to a great escape. Ranieri suffered the loss of Esteban Cambiasso in the heart of the midfield, yet Danny Drinkwater has rose to the task of replacing him. Meanwhile, Jamie Vardy has consistently troubled defences with his potent mix of pace and power – the England international has already scored seven Premier League goals this term. Cédric Soares has improved a great deal since his arrival as he acclimatises to the Premier League – epitomised by his excellent display at Chelsea – but this will be a test of his defensive capabilities if Vardy peels off to the left wing which he occasionally elects to do.

Koeman will be confident of obtaining a positive result though, as his side has begun to gel more in recent weeks. The Dutchman will also have his compatriot Jordy Clasie available for the first time in the Premier League this weekend. The midfielder will undoubtedly add to the quality of the team, yet he will have struggle to immediately earn a place – James Ward-Prowse is gradually becoming an accomplished player alongside Victor Wanyama in a deeper role. The midfield battle between the two teams could be vital in deciding the result of what should be a compelling game.

Key Battles

Ward-Prowse v Drinkwater: This should be an interesting encounter in the centre of the park. Ward-Prowse came on to force a significant change in the pattern of play in the game against Chelsea. While Oriol Romeu and Wanyama were fulfilling the same role in the engine room, the England Under-21 captain provided an effective link between the defence and the attacking quartet. He attempted elaborate balls at the opportune moment, but for the majority of the time, he kept his game simple, allowing those around him to capitalise on Chelsea’s numerous errors. He will have to show composure on Saturday, as Drinkwater is a tidy performer. Consistency is the key for the midfielder as he looks to keep experienced midfielders Andy King and Gökhan Inler on the bench.

S. Davis v Fuchs: The Northern Ireland captain has been in superb form recently, notching three goals for club and country in as many games. He should play on the right side of an attacking midfield trio featuring Sadio Mané and Dušan Tadić. While this is not a natural position for the midfielder, he will keep the game ticking over, with clever touches and awareness. He will also interchange with Mané and Tadić, as Saints will strive to move their opponents around, and create further chances for Graziano Pellè to strike. The Northern Ireland captain is also not afraid to track back, and this will be imperative to deny Christian Fuchs. The Austrian is capable of whipping the ball in dangerously with his cultured left boot, and Davis will not be able to allow him time down the left wing – considering the aerial menace that Vardy and Shinji Okazaki possess.

Possible Line-ups

Southampton: Stekelenburg – Soares, Fonte (C), Van Dijk, Bertrand – Wanyama, Ward-Prowse – S. Davis, Mané, Tadić – Pellè

K. Davis, Yoshida, Clasie, Rodriguez, Romeu, Martina, Juanmi

Leicester: Schmeichel – Simpson, Huth, Morgan (C), Fuchs – Mahrez, Drinkwater, Kanté, Schlupp – Okazaki, Vardy

Schwarzer, De Laet, King, Ulloa, Dyer, Benalouane, Inler

REPORT: Chelsea 1 Southampton 3

Southampton pulled off a superb win as they came from behind to beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Willian scored the opener from a free-kick, before Steven Davis restored parity with a half-volley on the stroke of half-time. In the second period, Sadio Mané and Graziano Pellè both struck to give Saints a well-deserved triumph in West London.

As the teamsheets came in at 4.30, there was somewhat of a surprise from the home camp. In changes from their encounter with Newcastle, captain John Terry returned, along with Ramires, Willian and Radamel Falcao; in place of Kurt Zouma, Nemanja Matić, Pedro and Loïc Rémy. Meanwhile, Ronald Koeman made one alteration in an attempt to shore up his midfield, with James Ward-Prowse making way for former Blue, Oriol Romeu.

Southampton started the contest well, as they managed to get their foot on the ball, yet it was Chelsea who opened the scoring in the tenth minute. The home side won a free-kick as Romeu clipped Eden Hazard when the Belgian showed some of his signature dazzling footwork. 30 yards from goal on the left wing, Willian hit an opportunist effort which curled beyond Maarten Stekelenburg, and into the back of the net via the far post. This did not perturb Saints though, as they continued to hold possession when they could in the midfield, and bide their time. They should have benefited from the award of a penalty when a free-kick came in from the left, but referee Bobby Madley did not acknowledge the fact that Branislav Ivanović was tugging on Virgil van Dijk’s shirt.

Southampton had an opportunity to level shortly afterwards, as Dušan Tadić played Davis in on the right side of the box, however the midfielder could only lash the ball into the Stamford Bridge crowd. The away side were having some joy though, particularly the three players behind Pellè. Tadić, Davis and Mané often changed positions as they looked to find pockets of space in behind Chelsea’s defensive midfield, and constantly troubled their hosts. Just after the half-hour mark, Saints had another stonewall penalty appeal, but Bobby Madley waved away their pleas. Mané jinked his way past Ramires who upended the Senegalese, however the referee was not interested. The attacker’s tumble was somewhat theatrical, yet it was a clear foul. To add insult to injury, he was booked for simulation a minute later, when Ivanović swept his legs away illegally.

The visitors sensed the anxious atmosphere amongst the home crowd and players, and continued to test the hosts. In the 41^st minute, the effective Mané ran crossfield from the right side, weaving his way past Chelsea players, and slipped Ryan Bertrand in on the left side, but the left-back could only slam his shot against Asmir Begović. The stopper could do nothing moments later though. Throughout the game, Pellè bullied both Gary Cahill and John Terry; highlighted particularly well in the build-up to the equaliser. The Italian brushed off Cahill to expertly chest a lofted José Fonte ball towards Davis, who hit it cleanly on the half-volley to beat the ‘keeper from the edge of the area. The goal was evidence of how Southampton have the ability to mix their game up when the striker spearheads their attack. He has great technique which complements Saints’ attractive style, however his strength as an archetypal targetman who can gather long balls and bring his teammates into play is not to be overlooked.

There was action from both benches at the break, as Matić replaced Ramires, while Ward-Prowse came on for the cautioned Romeu in a positive switch from Koeman. The Dutchman would have been delighted as Saints continued to push Chelsea. Tadić found space down the left side to roll the ball to Mané at the near post, but his effort was well saved by Begović – the forward was not deterred though, as he collected the ball once again, however his shot was blocked by a Blue shirt. Despite this, Chelsea still could not clear their lines, and Tadić turned his countryman Ivanović inside out before finding Mané in the box, but his low drive ricocheted off a Blues player to Ward-Prowse, who could only rifle the rebound wide.

Chelsea nearly punished Southampton for not taking those opportunities as Fonte attempted to let a pass run through to Stekelenburg, but Falcao touched the ball past the stopper – only for the Colombian to dramatically fall to ground before the Dutchman made contact. The striker was duly booked, and matters got worse for Chelsea moments later, as Southampton took the lead in the 60^th minute. Pellè hit a low pass into Mané on the edge of the area – the speedster  turned away from Terry, leaving the veteran captain grounded in his wake, before slotting the ball past Begović. From that point, Saints managed the game well as Chelsea struggled to mount a serious attack. In defensive midfield, Ward-Prowse used the ball sensibly along with Victor Wanyama while Cédric Soares also caught the eye, as he repeatedly denied Hazard and César Azpilicueta time and space.

Southampton did not rest on their laurels though, as they added a third goal in the 72^nd minute. Pellè intercepted the ball in his own half before setting Mané away, who sped towards the backtracking Blues defence, before picking out the Italian international in the right side of the box – the striker took one touch to steady himself, then slammed a low shot across Begović into the far corner. At this point in proceedings, José Mourinho decided to throw the proverbial kitchen sink at Saints, as he hauled off half-time substitute Matić to bring on Rémy. Despite having a plethora of offensive players on the pitch and plenty of possession in the final twenty minutes, Chelsea’s attack was blunt. In fact, it was the visitors who nearly scored a fourth. A lofted pass towards Mané was controlled by Cahill, but he was muscled off the ball by the Senegalese who ran to the byline down the left wing, before rolling it across to Tadić – the winger controlled the ball, and used Davis as a decoy runner before firing a shot in, however Terry blocked well. That was to be the last piece of goalmouth action in the game, as Southampton saw out a memorable victory.

Man of the Match

Sadio Mané: Playing primarily down the centre behind Pellè, the attacker petrified Cahill and Terry with his pace and direct play throughout the match. He also played his part as one of a cohesive attacking midfield trio, as he linked up well with Tadić and Davis. Their fluid movement repeatedly opened up the Chelsea backline, yet the Senegalese was the stand-out performer.

Teams and Ratings

Chelsea

Begović 7 – Ivanović 5, Cahill 5, Terry (C) 5, Azpilicueta 6 – Ramires 6 (Matić 45’ 5 (Rémy 73’ 5)), Fàbregas 5 – Willian 6 (Pedro 64’ 5), Oscar 6, Hazard 6 – Falcao 5

Goals: Willian (10’)

Bookings: Ramires, Falcao

Southampton

Stekelenburg 6 – Soares 8, Fonte (C) 7, Van Dijk 7, Bertrand 7 – Romeu 6 (Ward-Prowse 45’ 7), Wanyama 7 – S. Davis 8, Mané 8 (Yoshida 90+2’ N/A), Tadić 7 (Rodriguez 78’ N/A) – Pellè 8

Goals: S. Davis (43’), Mané (60’), Pellè (72’)

Bookings: Romeu, Mané, Bertrand, Ward-Prowse, Pellè

PREVIEW: Chelsea v Southampton

Unavailable: Chelsea – Courtois, Costa

                         Southampton – Forster, Gardoş

In the build-up to this weekend’s encounter in the capital, dark clouds have been gathering over Stamford Bridge. After enjoying an aura of invincibility last season, José Mourinho’s men have endured a difficult start to this campaign. Controversy regarding Eva Carneiro and Jon Fearns has not helped the club, nor did Diego Costa’s suspension, yet Ronald Koeman stated that the principal issue lies elsewhere – in Chelsea’s backline.

When pressed on the reason behind the London club’s early season demise, he pointed to Mourinho’s decision to tinker with his defence – benching John Terry in favour of Kurt Zouma. It is hard not to concur with the Dutchman on the matter. While Terry’s advancing years may pose him problems when facing a genuine speed merchant, the Chelsea skipper is still an excellent leader who marshals his team well. On the other hand, Zouma shows real promise, but it is often easy to forget that the Frenchman is only 20 years old, and will make errors in his formative years.

Koeman has pinpointed this weakness, and displayed a poker face when asked whether he would give Shane Long a starting berth on Saturday. When played from the off at Stamford Bridge in March as the No 9, the striker caused havoc on occasion, as he stretched the Chelsea rearguard on the counter. The lack of certainty regarding the player selected up top for Saints will give Mourinho a headache. If Graziano Pellè is given the nod, it would be a battle that Terry would relish, but if Long were to start, it is likely that the Chelsea boss would opt for a Zouma-Cahill partnership.

Meanwhile, Koeman has other matters to consider in his engine room. The Dutchman was frustrated with his central midfield in the last half an hour against Swansea – declaring that they took their foot off the gas, and let the Swans play in front of them, rather than going for the kill. It will be imperative that those selected do not drop back and let their hosts pick them off. Against Manchester United, Victor Wanyama and Oriol Romeu were almost alongside José Fonte and Virgil van Dijk after 30 minutes, leaving the Red Devils time and space to build attacks, therefore Southampton need to push up when they have any opportunity to do so. If they can squeeze their opponents to good effect, Saints will be tricky customers for the Blues, and will add to Mourinho’s worries.

Key Battles

Pedro v Bertrand: After reportedly rejecting United in the summer, Pedro decided to head to Stamford Bridge, but his form has been somewhat average in his early performances. He may have sparkled on his debut against West Brom, however the Spaniard has found it challenging to strike up a good understanding with his fellow midfielders in the attacking trio behind Costa. Moreover, he has not been sufficiently supported by Branislav Ivanović in his early months at the club. Usually so capable when sprinting forward as an overlapping or underlapping full-back, the Serbian has put in several nervous displays in the last month or so.

On Saturday, it may well be the winger who has to support his right-back. When given the opportunity, Koeman will push his full-backs forward signifying that Pedro will have to track Ryan Bertrand, who will no doubt be buoyed by his England call-up so soon after coming back into action. Due to Luke Shaw’s horrendous injury, the Chelsea academy graduate should be handed an opportunity to hold down a spot in Roy Hodgson’s team – something which was unfairly kept from him last season when the former Saints left-back struggled for form. This Saturday, he will be keen to impress in front of his former employers, but it will be a test of his newfound match sharpness.

Ivanović v Tadić: It will be a clash between the two Serbian internationals down Southampton’s left wing, yet as stated above, the Chelsea right-back seems to be a shell of the player who made his way into the PFA team of the year last term. The Serbian has been slow, and his body language poor, yet Mourinho has stood by him whereas other favourites have been dropped by the Portuguese. It is necessary that he improves his game this weekend, otherwise his countryman will give him numerous problems. In contrast to the right-back’s downwards trajectory, Tadić has been on song in the last month. Finally back in his favoured position on the left wing, and supported by Bertrand, the Serbian adds real attacking flair to his team. While not gifted with natural speed like Sadio Mané, the winger has quick feet and a keen eye for an assist. This season, he has flooded the box with crosses once again, and he should be able to supply good service this Saturday – either for Pellè or Long, who possesses excellent spring.

Possible Line-ups

Chelsea: Begović – Ivanović, Cahill, Terry (C), Azpilicueta – Ramires, Fàbregas – Pedro, Willian, Hazard – Falcao

Blackman, Zouma, Rahman, Oscar, Mikel, Rémy, Matić 

Southampton: Stekelenburg – Soares, Fonte (C), Van Dijk, Bertrand – Wanyama, S. Davis – Ward-Prowse, Mané, Tadić – Pellè

K. Davis, Yoshida, Clasie, Long, Rodriguez, Romeu, Martina