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Chelsea 0-0 Southampton: Premier League – Player Ratings

By Erik Franzo

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 02: Stuart Armstrong of Southampton shakes hands with Angus Gunn of Southampton after the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Southampton FC at Stamford Bridge on January 2, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 02: Stuart Armstrong of Southampton shakes hands with Angus Gunn of Southampton after the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Southampton FC at Stamford Bridge on January 2, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images) /
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LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 02: Cesar Azpilicueta of Chelsea looks on as Cedric Soares of Southampton controls the ball during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Southampton FC at Stamford Bridge on January 2, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 02: Cesar Azpilicueta of Chelsea looks on as Cedric Soares of Southampton controls the ball during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Southampton FC at Stamford Bridge on January 2, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) /

Ralph Hasenhuttl, Manager – 9

Made 8 changes to the side that faced Manchester City with many fans questioning his selection.  Proved those fans wrong and helped earn his team a much needed point away at Chelsea.  Could hear him on the sidelines praising his players all game long, and has clearly re-injected belief into a Southampton side that was in desperate need of it.

Angus Gunn, Goalkeeper – 8.5

Will reportedly get two consecutive  games to show his qualities in place of Alex McCarthy.  Was very quick off his line in the early going.  Made a big save on Hazard from point blank in the 34th minute.  The rest of his saves were rather comfortable, or did he just make them look that way?  Decision-making leaving his box was spot on, and flashed some great hands.  A clean sheet on your debut away at Stamford Bridge.  Not too shabby.

Cedric Soares, Left Wing-Back – 6.5

Inserted with Matt Targett picking up a knock and Ryan Bertrand still out with an injury.  Offered three crosses in succession, and with both feet seeking out Ings early on.  However, late in the game proved he is much weaker on his left, missing Long wide open in the box.  Played with passion, and defended fairly well after sitting out five consecutive games.

Jannik Vestergaard, Left Centre-Back – 8

Took too long on the ball which forced Jan Bednarek into a yellow card deserving tackle.  Made an important tackle himself in first half stoppage time, thwarting a Ruben Loftus-Cheek break.  Played as big as he is, and gains confidence each time out.

Maya Yoshida, Centre-Back – 9

Returned to the side after being rested against City.  First impact was a block on a Willian strike from 10 yards out.  Looks comfortable sweeping up between the two Jans.  Massive tackle on Kante in the final five minutes, may have saved a point.  Best Southampton defender tonight, and that is saying a lot.

Jan Bednarek, Right Centre-Back – 8

Very solid performance once again from the Polish defender.  Played an entire half on a yellow, and primarily on Eden Hazard’s attacking side.  Made a critical block on a patented cut from the aforementioned Chelsea winger.

Yan Valery, Right Wing-Back – 7

Another tough Premier League test with Eden hazard on his hip all night long.  It comes down to decision-making with the Saints’ youngster.  Still unsure of himself going forward, but has an amazing knack of getting out of too much trouble.  Service must improve as a wing-back if he is to create chances.