A first half of few chances would see us enter the break goalless but in good spirits as pre-game plans included keeping patient against an energetic Saints side.

Eventually, after an away sending-off and a goal, we switched on and made our advantage count with three second-half goals from Tino Anjorin, Silko Thomas and Xavier Mbuyamba.

‘At half-time, we asked the boys to carry on because we knew if we were patient then the chances would come,’ Harley told the Chelsea website. ‘Clearly they did and we got our rewards in the second half.

‘We're happy with the result. We wanted to get some more points on the board but the main thing is the performance, and it was a good one. Southampton are always difficult to play against because they press high and are aggressive, but to a man I think we dealt with it.'

There were three debutants for the development squad last night - Thomas, Mbuyamba and Alfie Gilchrist, two of who were on the scoresheet, and Harley was delighted with the contribution of the trio.

‘Firstly, it’s great for Xavier and we are all so happy because it’s been a difficult period for him since the day he signed. He's been out injured but his mentality has been spot-on and he's been great to have around. To come on for the last 20 minutes and perform at the level he did was pleasing to see,’ Harley explained.

‘With Silko, he has earned his opportunity to come and play for the Under-23s and he has taken it very well. He played as a right wing-back and a left wing-back, was a constant threat and got his reward with an assist and a really good finish.

‘Our priority is for the players to be performing well. With the FA Youth Cup later this week, there was an opportunity for players to come in and play, such as Xavier, Siko and Alfie, and they haven’t disappointed.’

Our Under-18s take on Everton in the FA Youth Cup fifth round this Thursday 15 April. Kick-off is 12:30pm and the game will be streamed live and for free on the 5th Stand app and this website.