There's little doubt that Fabrice Fernandes played one of his best games for Saints agaisnst Chelsea. Gordon Strachan is clearly looking to the Frenchman to provide that mising attacking spark which will get balls into our strikers. While his final cross could still do with some work, Fabrice was full of confidence, and wasn't shy in having a few efforts on goal himself.
In addition to the lovely curling goal he scored from the edge of the box, Fabrice had a long range effort just over the bar and just failed to finish off an effort which looked easier to convert than his goal.
Saints really need some creativity in the midfield. All too often we get plenty of possession there without any cutting edge in attack. Hoepfully Fabrice will continue in this form and with luck we will see similar games from Anders Svensson and Rory Delap as well.
Rory Delap has moved back into Gordon Strachan's plans and is enjoying a spell back in the first team. Rory's form improved tremendously towards the end of last season and he was an outside bet to make the Republic of Ireland World Cup squad. However Strachan seemed to prefer a midfield containing Matthew Oakley with either Delap or Svensson providing a more creative edge.
With the great World Cup Anders Svensson had, it was difficult to see him out of the side. This left Rory's place in a little doubt.
Strachan has said he doesn't see his midfielders as either attacking or defensive. While this may have blunted Anders' attacking edge slightly, it's perfect for Delap who is one of the most versatile players in the Southampton squad.
Unlike the more defensive Oakley, Rory is far more aat ease getting forward and as a result this seasons central midfield pairing is Delap and Svensson.
Although he's nnot the most skillful centre-back you'll ever see, Paul Williams has now become an integral part of Saints back line. Initiallly brought in as a stop-gap due to the departure of Dean Richards, Paul has formed a superb partnership with Claus Lundekvam. After some initial doubts, fans have scarcely missed Richards' departure. Williams showed plenty of other qualities other than being dependable and solid last night against Chelsea.
With Claus Lundekvam injured and Paul Telfer replacing the injured Jason Dodd at right back, a lot was riding on Paul's shoulders. He had a tremendous match, shouting instructions to new signing Michael Svensson. Svensson couldn't have asked for a better partner to help him through his first full game for the Saints. Paul's tackling was determined and resolute as always. That's one of the things I like about him best. He's a no nonsence defender. If the ball needs to be cleared, Paul wll get it done, even if it has to be thumped out of play. While we may lose the odd attack, it makes for a much stronger defence which helps Saints more as a unit. Tahar El-Khalej often palys it out from the back and I think most Saints fans are less nervous seeing Paul on the park.