Player ratings as managerless Saints stun Stamford Bridge

Chelsea’s misery under Graham Potter reached a new low as they were stunned 1-0 by managerless Southampton at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

The Blues made a handful of changes after their midweek exploits but looked well off the pace against an inspired Southampton side who were fired to victory by a typically excellent James Ward-Prowse free-kick.

It was a nervy start for Chelsea as a mistake from Benoit Badiashile sent Kamaldeen Sulemana through on goal inside the first through minutes, but his one-on-one was saved by Kepa before Kalidou Koulibaly had to clear the rebound off the line.

Southampton remained on top for the opening stages, despite Noni Madueke and David Datro Fofana’s attempts at sparking Chelsea’s attack, but the first half was overrun by niggling injuries and disruptive fouls which prevented either side from building any momentum.

We did get to see some actual football towards the end of the first half, with Chelsea growing into the game slightly, but Southampton got the goal they deserved as yet another Ward-Prowse free-kick sent the Saints into the interval ahead.

Sterling’s introduction at the break shifted the game into Chelsea’s hands. His cross was inches away from meeting the head of Mason Mount, before the winger’s close-range strike looked destined for goal before it was blocked by Ainsley Maitland-Niles.

With 20 minutes to go, Sterling saw a header cleared off the line by Romain Perraud, with the Saints undoubtedly living dangerously as the clock ticked on.

A nasty head injury to Cesar Azpilicueta prompted a lengthy stoppage in the late stages, after which both sides fought for the next goal. Conor Gallagher got through but was denied by Gavin Bazunu, before Sekou Mara nearly got a sight of Kepa’s box.

However, Southampton held on to their lead to ensure they completed the double over Chelsea in 2022/23, with the Blues leaving the pitch to an aggressive chorus of boos.

GK: Kepa Arrizabalaga – 6/10 – Helpless for the free-kick but ensured Chelsea weren’t behind even earlier.

RB: Cesar Azpilicueta – 5/10 – Generally wasn’t that bad but it was his foul which gifted Ward-Prowse the opener. A player of his experience must know not to give perhaps the best free-kick taker in the world such a routine opportunity. Forced off with a really scary head injury after being inadvertedly kicked in the head.

CB: Kalidou Koulibaly – 3/10 – Could have easily been sent off in a chaotic 45-minute performance which saw him dragged around all over the pitch.