We've lost two of our last three home games to Chelsea and they arguably have a better side now. With our difficulty in putting the ball into the net, a win doesn't look too likely. I'll hope for one, obviously, but I reckon this will be a 1-1 draw.
Check out our previous encounters with Chelsea in our head to head section.
On The Cross got in touch with Rich Godden at www.chelsea-mad.co.uk to find out how Chelsea fans thought the game would go and for news on recent events at our visitors.
Do you think that Jimmy Flloyd Hasselbaink will stay at Chelsea or move to Barcelona ? The JFH saga will definitely be resolved one way or another by Monday as the transfer window will then be closed. But, after hearing recent comments made by the Barca Chairman, a deal looks unlikely. But with Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink you never know what will happen- apart from the fact that he will always score goals!
Is Carlton Cole ready to take his place ? Carlton Cole is certainly not ready to replace Jimmy, let alone hold down a regular first team place. That is not meant as criticism to the youngster as he will become a legend at Chelsea but he still needs to find his feet. It's not even been four months since he made his debut so he will be eased into the first team picture.
You've had a good start to the season. Have Chelsea finally found a level of consistancy ? It's too early to tell if we have developed a good level of consistency but I'd like to think that we can mount some sort of title challenge this year.
How much has the Terry/Morris trial affected the club ? Is Morris viewed as a liability? Unlike the trial involving Bowyer and Woodgate, the Morris-Terry trial seems to have spurred on the players. It has definitely affected the club though as we have been robbed of John Terry's services for the start of the season and he is a key player. But, mentally, I think the rest of the squad have just been determined to do well for them.
Unfortunately, I now think that Jody Morris may be on his way out of the club. Ken Bates warned him a few years ago that his lifestyle would have to be changed if he wanted to be the next Chelsea captain. That hasn't happened so we'll have to wait and see what happens...
Who should we watch out for on Wednesday? Boudewijn Zenden will be the player to watch out for. The Saints' right back had better be on his game as 'Bolo' is firing on all cylinders. After a tough first season, he is now looking sharper than ever and was our best player against both Charlton and Man United. You've been warned!
Another player to watch will be Enrique De Lucas. He is our only signing so far this summer but what a signing he looks. He can pass, he has bags of stamina and he never pulls out of a challenge. Wayne Bridge will have his hands full with the Spaniard. Oh... and he scored goal of the season in Spain a few years bag, so we know he can hit them!
Are there any injuries/ team news we should know about ? No first team players are injured as yet, although Manu Petit is struggling to play 60 minutes a game due to a lack of fitness. Eidur Gudjohnsen may return to the team in place of Zola, although Ranieri has favoured the diminutive Italian lately. I also expect Graeme Le Saux to come in at left back in place of Celestine Babayaro as the Nigerian has looked sloppy so far this year.
What's your match prediction? Chelsea always seem to do well when visiting the Saints so I'd like to think that we'll come away with all three points. A repeat of last season's 2-0 win for the Blues would suit me just fine...
