Chelsea will be looking to bounce back from defeat to rivals West Ham as they welcome a resurgent Southampton side to Stamford Bridge. The Blues are 14 points behind Manchester City at the top of the league in what looks to be a mountain to climb to retain their Premier League. The Saints have only lost once in their last 4 matches but are still finding goals hard to come by.
Premier League – Stamford Bridge, London – Saturday 16th December 2017 – 15:00 UK Time
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Draw Best Odd of: 4 at Ladbrokes |
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Chelsea
SouthamptonChelsea
The Blues have now dropped 16 points this season from as many games – an alarming statistic for Antonio Conte’s men. They currently sit in 3rd place – with 32 points from 16 games and their priority for the time being may well be securing Champions League football. Alvaro Morata has been a strong acquisition for the Blues – scoring 10 goals in all competitions for his new club.
Southampton
The Saints were beginning to feel the pressure in November but a win over Everton, coupled with strong points away at Bournemouth and at home to Arsenal have strengthened Mauricio Pellegrino’s position. They currently reside in 11th place in the table – although their measly goal tally of 16 goals from 16 games clearly requires improvement. Charlie Austin has had a sensational impact since his return from injury, bagging 5 goals for the Saints and he currently averages a goal for every 80 minutes played this term.
Head to Head
Chelsea hold the advantage in the head to head record between the sides – leading by 41 wins to 30 with another 28 matches ending as draws.
The Blues did a comfortable double over the Saints last term, winning 2-0 at St Mary’s before emerging 4-2 victors at Stamford Bridge in April 2017 thanks to goals from Eden Hazard, Gary Cahill and a Diego Costa brace.
Odds and Predictions
Southampton had struggled for goals before Charlie Austin’s return but now look to have a genuine goal threat.
Both teams to score – YES – represents great value at 1/1 with Betfair.
Alvaro Morata has been in stellar form for the Blues this season – particularly at home.
Alvaro Morata to score anytime looks great value at 7/9 with 888 Sport.
Southampton have been in decent form recently but Chelsea should possess a little too much class.
Chelsea to win the game is a banker bet at 2/5 with Skybet.
This could be a fiery encounter between two combative teams.
A red card to be shown in the match looks a good outside bet at 7/2 with Coral.
Score Prediction
Chelsea 2 – 1 Southampton – 8/1 with Bet Victor.
Top Betting Tip
Southampton will fancy their chances with Chelsea out of form but the Blues should have too much about them – especially at home. Chelsea to win the game and both teams to score looks a great bet at 21/10 with Coral.