Marc Cucurella has sent a clear Chelsea message after being heavily involved in the flashpoint that played a huge role in their 5-1 win against Southampton. Axel Disasi had put the Blues in front early on, but Joe Aribo soon netted an equaliser - only for the game to completely turn on its head over the next 30 minutes.
Another unforced defensive error from the Saints allowed Christopher Nkunku to restore Chelsea's lead before Noni Madueke grabbed a third goal 11 minutes before half-time. With Enzo Maresca's team in control, the points then appeared to be wrapped up in the first half after Jack Stephens was shown a straight red card.
An incident involving Cucurella off the ball saw the Chelsea star in a heap on the floor, with replays then showing he was pulled to the floor by Stephens via his hair. Following that, the Blues scored a further two goals courtesy of Cole Palmer and Jadon Sancho in the second half.
Although Chelsea were ahead by two goals at the time of Stephens' sending off, it certainly helped them see out the points and increase their goal difference, which moved them above Arsenal. After the win, Maresca offered his verdict on the decision.
"I saw the action and then the referee decided, he checked the VAR, and then he decided. Nothing to add," he admitted in a press conference - while also believing the correct decision was made. Cucurella, who was at the centre of the drama, has since sent a clear message on social media.
Alongside pictures from the win, he captioned an Instagram post: "Great away win Blues! This weekend we go again [Popcorn and blue heart emojis]." Among those praising the Spain international in the replies section was goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen - having made his Premier League debut at St. Mary's Stadium - and Enzo Fernandez.
The message posted by Marc Cucurella on Instagram.
The message posted by Marc Cucurella on Instagram.
The final part of Cucurella's message is clearly in reference to the London derby that now awaits Chelsea away at Tottenham this Sunday. The Blues enter the clash in excellent form while Ange Postecoglou's side are in the midst of an inconsistent run of results.
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