Southampton vs Chelsea  (3-0): Four talking points

#3 Cesar Azplicueta

Southampton FC v Chelsea FC - Premier League

Over the past few years, the Spaniard has been the first name on the teamsheet ever since he took over Ashley Cole and donned the left flank for Chelsea. Since his debut, he has played as a right back ( under Rafael Benitez), left back (under Jose Mourinho) and a center back ( under Antonio Conte). Now under Maurizio Sarri, he is back to his natural position.

In a possession-oriented system, fullbacks’ offensive contribution is of prime importance as they help in stretching the opposition defense so that offensive players can have space to unlock defenses. Azplicueta in this aspect has been solid but unspectacular. Even defensively, he has looked shaky at times. He, along with Ngolo Kante, are the perhaps the lowest contributors offensively. So often, Chelsea’s right-hand side of the attack has lacked the danger element.

The ex- Marseille defender needs to improve offensively in order to give Chelsea an extra option going forward and he has the ability as he started out as a winger in his professional career.