Southampton 2-3 Chelsea: Three match takeaways

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - APRIL 14: Olivier Giroud of Chelsea celebrates after scoring his sides third goal during the Premier League match between Southampton and Chelsea at St Mary's Stadium on April 14, 2018 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images) /

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SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – APRIL 14: Olivier Giroud of Chelsea applauds fans after the Premier League match between Southampton and Chelsea at St Mary’s Stadium on April 14, 2018 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Henry Browne/Getty Images) /

Saints still can’t deal with bulky strikers

As proven once again today, Southampton still can’t handle targetmen. It’s been a problem all season – ever since Virgil van Dijk fell out of the starting XI and was eventually sold the Saints have been totally unable to deal with strong forwads.

Everyone knew Giroud would attempt to win headers and feed off loose balls, but the Saints defence simply didn’t with it which isn’t acceptable.

None of the centre-backs currently at Mark Hughes’ disposal are especially strong in the air and this has been a recurring problem all season.