Chelsea came back from 2-0 down yesterday to beat Southampton 3-2, with a second half double substitution playing a key role.
Olivier Giroud came on for Alvaro Morata, who had been having a poor game. The Frenchman made an immediate impact and scored twice, so his impact is being emphasised.
But as much as it was the introduction of Giroud, the change in the game was as much down the change of system that occurred when he came on. Davide Zappacosta was brought off for Pedro at the same moment, with Chelsea moving to a back four with Cesar Azpilicueta at right back.
This change of shape suddenly made them a more dangerous attacking threat, and the three goals flew in almost immediately.
Antonio Conte will have to start thinking seriously about whether it’s time to retire the 343 that has served him so well in the last 18 months, and return to the back four that looked so strong against Hughes’ men.
