It solely took just a few weeks for the Chelsea assault to get going. Raheem Sterling scored a brace because the Blues brushed apart Leicester Metropolis final weekend, however Thomas Tuchel could have depth points as he seems to be to switch Conor Gallagher in his already skinny midfield? Mason Mount can associate Jorginho, however after Mount was withdrawn towards Leicester, can he be trusted with extra of a box-to-box function on quick relaxation in Tuesday’s match at Southampton?
With how the Saints defended towards Manchester United, they might trigger bother in the event that they’re capable of isolate Sterling from the remainder of the assault and hit Chelsea on the counter. With out N’Golo Kante, the Blues are suspect in protection, lacking their key clog within the center towards a crew determined to point out one thing in assault.
This is our storylines, how one can watch the match and extra:
How one can watch and odds
- Date: Tuesday, Aug. 30 | Time: 2:45 p.m. ET
- Location: St. Mary’s Stadium — Southampton, Hampshire
- TV: None | Dwell stream: Peacock
- Odds: Southampton +470; Draw +310; Chelsea -170 (by way of Caesars Sportsbook)
Featured Sport | Southampton vs. Chelsea
Damage updates
Southampton: Valentino Livramento is a long-term absentee for Ralph Hasenhuttl, however exterior of him, the remainder of the crew might be out there for choice. Jan Bednarek has additionally been linked to a transfer to Aston Villa to switch Diego Carlos, so he would probably be held out of the motion as effectively if that transfer materializes.
Chelsea: With out Kante and Gallagher, Mateo Kovacic’s return from damage could not come at a greater time as ball development by the middle of the pitch has been a problem. Tuchel’s wing backs have been robust however their crosses from extensive flip right into a predictable plan when Chelsea strikes ahead. Kalidou Koulibaly’s return from suspension may even assist them push ahead however Southampton might be ready to guard St. Mary’s Stadium. Since permitting 4 targets on the opening day of the season to Spurs, Southampton have solely allowed 4 targets of their final three matches whereas amassing 4 factors.
Prediction
The Blues will discover it tough to interrupt down the Saints for essentially the most half, as Sterling will discover area for an eventual winner. Decide: Chelsea 2, Southampton 1