Southampton 1-4 Chelsea: 5 Talking Points & Tactical Analysis | Premier League 2019-20 

#2 Pressing in the final third paid off for Chelsea

Southampton FC v Chelsea FC - Premier League

The Saints clearly held the upper edge in the natal stages of the game, pressing high up the pitch, recovering the ball many a time and expressing themselves more than their opponents. Chelsea on the other hand had to switch on and keep pace.

However, their idea, as from what the shape they held indicated, was to keep Southampton at bay when they would play out from the back. Chelsea's pressure paid off, as they disallowed Southampton to play freely, charged forward in numbers and snatched the ball back in daunting areas of the pitch.

And suddenly out of nowhere, closed spaces down Chelsea's left led to the turnover of possession. Without any delay, Hudson-Odoi picked the run of Tammy Abraham. From then on, it was all the striker's work.

He kept the ball alive despite being pushed by a red and white shirt, maintained the composure. What followed was a moment of footballing brilliance, as he tucked the ball over an onrushing Angus Gunn to give his side the lead.

Callum Hudson-Odoi has been directly involved in a goal in each of his four appearances so far this season:⚽️ vs. Grimsby🅰️ vs. Brighton🅰️ vs. Lille🅰️ vs. SouthamptonIt's like he's never been away. pic.twitter.com/0Pq8srtFFl

— Squawka Football (@Squawka) October 6, 2019

Doing that was far from simple, owing to the distance, pressure and lack of company.