Chelsea have a golden opportunity to return to winning ways as they host struggling Southampton in the Premier League, according to former striker Chris Sutton.

The Blues have looked “very flat in recent weeks” and suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday despite taking the lead.

However, Sutton believes this fixture comes at the perfect time for Enzo Maresca’s side.

“This is the perfect game for them – you could not ask for more of an open goal at the moment than playing Southampton at home,” Sutton said in his weekly predictions.

The former Premier League winner expects Chelsea to take full advantage of the Saints’ struggles, backing them to find their rhythm at Stamford Bridge.

“Saints will give Chelsea the chance to find their rhythm again and I don’t see them keeping them out,” he added.

Southampton’s season has been nothing short of disastrous, and Sutton did not hold back in his assessment of their plight.

“I must say every week how dismal this season has been for Southampton fans, and probably the only thing they have to look forward to at the moment is the prospect of a day out in Norwich next season when they are back in the Championship,” he remarked.

Sutton has predicted a 2-0 victory for Chelsea, expecting them to capitalise on Southampton’s weaknesses and bounce back after recent disappointments.