Chelsea vs Southampton: Premier League – Opposition Threats

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 07: Nathan Redmond of Southampton battles for possession with Eden Hazard of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Chelsea FC at St Mary's Stadium on October 7, 2018 in Southampton, United Kingdom. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 07: Nathan Redmond of Southampton battles for possession with Eden Hazard of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Chelsea FC at St Mary's Stadium on October 7, 2018 in Southampton, United Kingdom. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
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LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 02: Jorginho of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Fulham FC at Stamford Bridge on December 1, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 02: Jorginho of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Fulham FC at Stamford Bridge on December 1, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Jorginho

The little Italian with the Brazilian touch has been outstanding this term for Sarri and is proving himself one of the signings of the year. Chelsea’s official website states that the midfielder had an astonishing 178 touches of the ball in their last match against Crystal Palace and was in possession twice as long as any other player. Hazard may take the plaudits for his finishing and wizardry but make no mistake, Jorginho is the player pulling the strings for Chelsea.

The implementation of a high press by Hasenhuttl has led to a noticeable improvement at Southampton and it is imperative that the players do not allow Jorginho time on the ball to dictate proceedings. Although the Italian international is not prolific in the goals or assist charts, a pass success rate of 90.9% this season shows a player who instinctively knows the right pass to play. Keep him quiet and Southampton will fancy their chances of stealing a result at the Bridge.