Chelsea allowed Southampton to come back into the match and salvage a draw, but there were some fantastic individual performances.
Another disappointing result where Chelsea should have taken the three points. The Blues started the game with high levels of energy and incredible attacking, but some worrying defensive moments. Those moments turned to horror to the point of conceding three goals in a match that could have easily been won. Here are the player ratings for this match:
Kepa Arrizabalaga (Goalkeeper): We need antidepressants
Confidence is out the window, along with decision making. Arrizabalaga had a good game until Southampton scored its second goal. Let’s be honest, the first and third goal were not his fault. In the first, he was left out to dry by the centerbacks and in the third, it was a redirection at close range. However, the second was all on he and Kurt Zouma. Arrizabalaga should have attacked the ball and taken it from the attacker’s feet. He had the time and space to do so, yet, he pulled out halfway through the tackle. His confidence is non-existent at this point, and his decisions are being affected by it.
Cesar Azpilicueta (Right back): 6
The skipper was the second-best defender on the field. Captain Reliable was solid at the back, not making many—or any—mistakes. However, he also did not press forward many times. While, this was not necessarily needed for attacking purposes, it was needed to keep the possession of the ball. Nevertheless, one cannot blame Azpilicueta when the rest of the team fails in specific areas.
Kurt Zouma (Centerback): 3
Not a good day for Chelsea’s best centerback. Zouma was responsible partially for all three goals conceded by the team. His partnership with Christensen seems to lack communication and solidity. The Frenchman was caught on his heels during several plays which cost Chelsea to drop points on the day.
Andreas Christensen (Centerback): 2
Christensen once again failed to deliver. The 24-year-old was too casual on the field; particularly when it came to dealing with one-on-one runs, clearances and loose balls. There was a lack of communication and cohesiveness between the centerback pairing, and this is becoming a big a concern for the Blues and manager Frank Lampard.
Ben Chilwell (Left back): 8
A great performance all around from Chilwell, the Englishman showing what Chelsea was really missing. Chilwell was all over the field, providing crosses, keeping possession and defending. At no point was he out of position, while still managing to help the attack every chance he got. His left-footed crosses are bound to find attackers sooner rather than later, all due to his vision and clinical abilities. Chilwell was the best defender on the day because he took it upon himself to assist each area of the team as often as possible.