Southampton forward Nathan Redmond has been hailing the “good test” that awaits his side against Chelsea in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup.
The two sides were pitted together against each other on Wednesday evening after each booked their progression.
Thomas Tuchel’s Chelsea progressed past Aston Villa on penalties, whilst the Saints also required a shootout to get beyond Championship outfit Sheffield United.
Having come up against the Blues on numerous occasions throughout his career, Redmond is relishing the opportunity once more.
Following the draw, he said: "At some point, you have to play a few of the big boys.
"Last time we played against them, at home, we played pretty well to be honest. They are European champions, respectfully, so it is going to be a good test.”
It goes without saying that Chelsea too will be aiming to progress to the quarter-finals of the competition during Tuchel’s first full season in charge.
Since arriving in January, the German has guided the Blues to a second Champions League crown, as well as the UEFA Super Cup.
Following their success against Manchester City in Porto, he promised owner Roman Abramovich to get the Blues challenging for yet more silverware – a task that is set to be challenged against Redmond’s Southampton.
Talking after Chelsea’s Champions League win, Tuchel said: "I can assure him I'll stay hungry, that I want the next title, I feel absolutely happy and part of a really ambitious club and a strong group that suits my beliefs and passions about football in this moment perfectly.
"My desire is go for more victories, my desire is to push the group from the first day of next season to the limit. We have work to do to close the gap and this is what I am all about."
While a specific date is yet to be set for Chelsea’s Carabao Cup meeting with Southampton at Stamford Bridge, the tie is scheduled to take place during the week commencing October 25.
