Premier League: Southampton vs. Chelsea Prediction, head-to-head, team news, possible line-ups and betting tips

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.

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.

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 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.

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

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