Ivan Juric's unexpected Chelsea claim sure to draw contrasting fan reactions | OneFootball

Ivan Juric has dropped a cheering update on Jan Bednarek but the latter won't participate in the Chelsea outing.

As a Southampton fan, can you guess the common feeling ahead of the away Chelsea match? For most of the fanbase, it would be about wishing for a respectable full-time score.

Generally, a draw should have been an ambitious goal but currently, the Saints can be excused for aspiring for the above. The reason being that a third gigantic result is seemingly around the door for a vulnerable Southampton team.

Well, there has been a twist in the scenario which would definitely divide fan opinions.

Ivan Juric's unexpected Chelsea claim sure to draw contrasting fan reactions

Recently, Ivan Juric was interrogated about an update on Jan Bednarek's fitness discomforts. Recalling how Bednarek couldn't continue playing against Brighton, there were valid fears that the 28-year-old would have to sit out almost a month similar to Harwood-Bellis and Dibling.

Yet, Juric's comments are sure to take even the most optimistic Southampton supporters by surprise. In Juric's words, as quoted by the Daily Echo: "No, only Bednarek, he will be out this game, it's nothing serious, but this game he will not play."

In all honesty, the above statement would have brought relief along with some light smiles amidst a turbulent string of results. Well, why wouldn't it be? After all, Southampton managed an injury escape if not a relegation escape.

Analysing the turn of events, the Croatian manager must be hailed for his proactive approach to bring Bednarek early instead of risking a big injury later.

Nevertheless, this is an unlucky circumstance for Southampton once again. Just imagine, had there been a usual week's rest before the Stamford Bridge visit, Bednarek would have recovered well in time.

Now that he isn't in contention to play against the Blues, the same daunting worries remain for the scheduled ninety minutes.