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The Blues travel to face bottom-of-the-table Southampton, hoping to climb to second spot by the end of the game week. Here are predictions, team news, betting tips, and possible line-ups for the game.
Chelsea have been in fine form since the international break, winning all three games, including an impressive victory over Aston Villa last weekend.
This result has propelled them above Manchester City in the table, though they remain third, tied on points with Arsenal and nine points behind Liverpool.
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For the Saints, they have shown resilience, particularly in their recent draw against Brighton, as they were unlucky not to go home with all three points after VAR controversially ruled out their second goal.
Southampton vs. Chelsea Head to Head
The Saints have a strong recent record against Chelsea, losing only twice in their last seven encounters.
Notably, they achieved a league double over Chelsea during their relegation season in 2022-23.
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Southampton vs. Chelsea Team News and Possible Lineups
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Southampton will be without several key players for their match against Chelsea.
Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Flynn Downes, and Tyler Dibling are suspended due to yellow card accumulation.
Injuries to Aaron Ramsdale, Gavin Bazunu, Adam Lallana, and Jan Bednarek further deplete their options, while Ross Stewart, Paul Onuachu, and William Smallbone are also doubtful.
Chelsea will be missing captain Reece James and defender Wesley Fofana due to hamstring injuries, with Fofana's injury potentially sidelining him for the entire festive period.
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Southampton Predicted lineup (5-4-1)
Lumley (GK); Sugawara, Walker-Peters, Wood, Stephens, Manning; Fraser, Aribo, Mateus Fernandes, Armstrong; Archer
Chelsea Predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)
Sanchez (GK); Gusto, Colwill, Badiashile, Cucurella; Fernandez, Caicedo; Sancho, Palmer, Neto; Jackson
Southampton vs. Chelsea Predictions & Betting Tips
The hosts have shown improvement lately, but they are still vulnerable to counterattacks, and Chelsea, with their potent attack, are well-equipped to capitalise on these opportunities.
Chelsea to win
Chelsea to score over 1.5 goals
Over 2.5 cards
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