Gary Cahill believes Chelsea's victory over Southampton tonight was a huge step towards the title.

The Blues restored their seven-point lead at the top of the Premier League table courtesy of a 4-2 triumph at Stamford Bridge, putting the ball in the court of second-placed Tottenham Hotspur.

Cahill put Chelsea ahead on the stroke of half-time with a header from a Marcos Alonso cross and the defender was delighted to contribute so greatly to a monumental win as the West Londoners continue their march towards the title.

"It does feel like a massive step," Cahill said.

"First time for a long time we've played first [before Tottenham in the league].

"Marcos Alonso popped a nice ball across and it's great for a defender.

"It was a great timing [the second goal] and a big boost before half-time. Most important thing is that we get the win."