Boss Antonio Conte says Chelsea’s form is being “forgotten” because of Manchester City’s record-breaking run, after the Blues beat Southampton to make it eight wins in 10 Premier League games.
Marcos Alonso’s winner sent Chelsea level on points with second-placed Manchester United, who boast a better goal difference and face West Brom on Sunday.
But both sides are 14 points adrift of City after the leaders recorded their 16th consecutive win with victory over Tottenham
“Someone is forgetting this run, because there is a team winning every game,” said Conte.
“I want to remember that in the last 10 games, we won eight games, drew only one game against Liverpool away and lost only one game, at West Ham.
“If someone asks me if I want to sign for this in the next 10 games, I’m ready.”
Alonso’s long-range free-kick beat Saints goalkeeper Fraser Forster to put Chelsea ahead in stoppage-time of a first half the hosts had dominated.
Eden Hazard thought he had doubled the Blues’ lead after the break, but Cesc Fabregas was flagged offside in the build-up.
Pedro hit the post and Fabregas shot wide as Southampton, now winless in five matches, rode their luck at Stamford Bridge.
