It’s been a miserable start to the Premier League season for Chelsea, who find themselves down in 16th place after 12 matches.
To date, Jose Mourinho’s side have won only three and lost seven of their Premier League matches to date, and they have amassed a miserable 11 points—only three more than newly promoted Bournemouth, who occupy the third relegation spot.
While Mourinho is expected to make some big moves in the transfer market come January, as he looks to bolster his squad, there should also be some outgoings.
In this feature, we present five players who must be axed if the Pensioners are to get their season back on track.
SEE MORE:
15 Unforgettable French Footballers: Arsenal legends, World Cup heroes & controversial sextape star included
Agent of Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester United target admits Real Madrid want star striker
Manchester United target refuses to rule out January move, Real Madrid, Inter Milan both linked to midfielder
Diego Costa
He’s becoming an unwanted distraction, with his overly aggressive approach to matches and constant controversy undermining the Blues’ positive efforts.
This was tolerated last season as the goals flowed, but with only two league goals in 10 outings so far this season, he may no longer be with the hassle.
Radamel Falcao
One goal so far this season—against bottom club Aston Villa—and a series of anonymous performances means that Falcao finds himself in the middle of a second consecutive nightmare campaign.
It’s unclear exactly what agreement Chelsea have with Monaco, but don’t be surprised if they opt to curtail the striker’s stay in January, particularly if a replacement can be found.
Eden Hazard
Naturally, Chelsea will not be keen to cash in on their prized asset, and so don’t expect a move in January. However, with Hazard underperforming—and occasionally looking like a burden for the side—Mourinho may be willing to earn a maximum fee for Hazard before his value drops any further.
Real Madrid are keen on the playmaker, and could look to force through a move in January.
John Terry
The former England defender has looked far from his best this season, and while he’s improved slightly in recent weeks, he still looks sluggish and a far cry from the man mountain who once dominated Premier League strikers on a regular basis.
Rather than attempt to reduce Terry’s influence and contend with the unwanted sideshow of an unhappy club legend, might Mourinho look to move the skipper on? Surely a club in Major League Soccer would be willing to take a punt…?
John Obi Mikel
The Nigerian midfielder looks firmly to be part of Chelsea’s past, and has wholly failed to influence contests and have a positive impact so far this season.
He’s made five starts so far this season, the loss to Everton, the loss to FC Porto, the loss to West Ham United, the loss to Liverpool and…almost breaking the run…the Capital One Cup draw with Stoke City, which…erm…ended in elimination on penalties.
It makes for an ugly read, and if there are clubs in Italy or Turkey who want him…they can have him.