Chelsea v Southampton: five key battles

Chelsea will be looking for a much-needed home victory when they face Southampton on Saturday. Here are five potential battles we think could be crucial in the game at Stamford Bridge.

Loic Remy or Radamel Falcao v Virgil van Dijk
Centre-back Van Dijk has made fine start to his Southampton career since arriving from Celtic. Whichever Chelsea striker plays in place of the suspended Diego Costa will need to be at their best against the big Dutchman.

John Terry v Graziano Pellè
Chelsea fans in Portugal chanted for skipper Terry to be recalled following the Champions League defeat against Porto. The Blues defence has looked no more solid since Terry was dropped and he may well be restored to combat the threat of towering Saints striker Pellè, who has already scored seven goals this season.

Cesc Fabregas v Victor Wanyama
Fabregas has come in for criticism this season and on current form he might find the going tough against Wanyama, who is a key player for Southampton. Assuming the Spaniard keeps his place.

Pedro v Ryan Bertrand
Former Chelsea left-back Bertrand has flourished since leaving but is likely to face a big test in the shape of Pedro. It could be a fascinating battle.

Cesar Azpilicueta v Sadio Mané
Azpilicueta has been Chelsea’s best defender for much of this season and they’ll need him to be in good form against the talented and very unpredictable Mané. The Blues full-back can certainly expect to be kept busy.