Both Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso have improved significantly since arriving at Chelsea.
Azpilicueta was named Chelsea’s player of the season in 2013-14, before becoming vital in Antonio Conte’s back-three.
Alonso received little fanfare after signing for the Blues having flopped at both Bolton Wanderers and Sunderland.
But he was also vital for Conte, playing as his left-wing back, resulting in Alonso being in the PFA Team of the Year in 2017-18.
And both of them – in particular Alonso – started the season well under new manager Maurizio Sarri.
However, over recent games, they have begun to look a little suspect.
Azpilicueta does not look totally comfortable on the ball – as Sarri likes – causing him to make mistakes.
Alonso, on the other hand, looks too comfortable on the ball which means he is often defensively lacking.
And with a busy schedule on the horizon, it is time for them to both get a rest.
Sarri has serviceable back-ups waiting in the wings in the form of Davide Zappacosta and Emerson Palmieri.
Emerson in particular has excelled when given the opportunity in either the EFL Cup or the Europa League.
A rest could rejuvenate both Azpilicueta and Alonso, and freshen them up before the busy Christmas schedule.