PREM: Southampton v Chelsea preview

Southampton v Chelsea preview

Eden Hazard will be aiming to continue his strong start to the season when Chelsea face Southampton.

Hazard is the leading scorer in the Premier League with six goals in seven matches, including the opener in Chelsea's 1-1 draw with Liverpool last weekend.

He was introduced from the bench on Thursday as Chelsea made eight changes for their Europa League win over MOL Vidi.

They will be back to full strength on Sunday as they look to go top of the table ahead of Liverpool's clash with Manchester City.

Southampton have won just once in their opening seven games and lost twice to Chelsea in quick succession last season, blowing a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 at St Mary's and then going down 2-0 in the semi-finals of the FA Cup.

Manager Mark Hughes believes Chelsea can be contenders for silverware again this season, saying: "I think Chelsea will always be a (title) contender, you see the quality of their squad.

"The strength in depth they've got is comparable to all the other top teams. They will go close. They've got a new manager and it seems when Chelsea change management that initial season usually seems to be the one that they are very strong in.

"I feel, given what I've already seen, they will have a strong season and go very close."

Alongside Hazard, defenders Cesar Azpilicueta, David Luiz, Antonio Rudiger and Marcos Alonso were among those afforded a rest against Vidi. Striker Olivier Giroud and midfielder Jorginho should also return.

Mark Hughes welcomes forward Shane Long, who missed the Carabao Cup clash with Everton in midweek, back into his squad after overcoming a toe issue.

Southampton's options are further boosted after Moi Elyounoussi returned to training.

"Shane Long is back, he trained today. Moi Elyounoussi also trained today, Ryan Bertrand trained and Alex McCarthy also," Hughes said. "They'll all be available as long as we don't see a reaction overnight."