After a terrible start last season that included a 9-0 drubbing at the hands of Leicester City at home, Southampton beat the odds to survive in the Premier League.
The Saints finished the campaign in 11th last term. One can only wonder how high they would’ve been in the table if they started the season as well as they ended it.
Southampton have had a decent start to this season too. Two wins in four games isn’t a bad record, especially when they have already played Tottenham and a very solid Burnley side.
Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl will be looking to get a third win on the bounce this weekend – but it won’t be easy. The Saints head to Stamford Bridge to face big-spenders Chelsea, who some are tipping as contenders for the Premier League crown.
Southampton have already been dealt a blow with Stuart Armstrong set to miss out after his difficulties on international duty. Right-wing is an important position for the Saints as it’s an area Chelsea have been vulnerable in for quite some time.
Armstrong will be a big miss, but Hasenhuttl has a very experienced new signing to bring in. Southampton signed Theo Walcott on a season-long loan deal from Everton on transfer deadline day.
The former Arsenal man has bundles of experience in the Premier League having played close to 350 games so far. Walcott is a natural option for Hasenhuttl on that right flank, and he has a very decent record against Saturday’s opposition.
The Englishman has started 16 times against Chelsea in his career. Walcott has scored six goals and provided two assists against the Blues – a direct goal contribution in every other game, which is an impressive record.
Starting Walcott will by no means guarantee a result for Southampton. However, it gives them a good chance.
Chelsea’s recent results show they are beatable, and Hasenhuttl will look to continue his good record against the Blues, having lost just once in three meetings.
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