Maya Yoshida admits Southampton will be facing a much different Chelsea on Sunday.
Saints scored a valuable goalless draw at Stamford Bridge last season.
But Japan international Yoshida acknowledges the Blues look changed under new manager Frank Lampard.
He said: "I had a good feeling at Stamford Bridge but it's a new season and they have a different team and a new manager.
"It's not the same game. Even we are much better than we were six months ago.
"It will be a new game and a new start and after two defeats against Bournemouth and Tottenham, we need to show good character.
"We need to come back as soon as possible."