Mason Mount should be rested from the start in Saturday’s game against West Ham.
Tactically and spiritually he’s a key part of this Chelsea team, and his place as a starter should be assured in the long run. But he’s been worn into the ground for a third season in a row, and just as we saw last year and the year before, a short break from the starting team will do him wonders.
Until now it’s just not been possible, as injuries have stripped Graham Potter’s ability to make the changes he needs.
But with Enzo Fernandez in the team, Mateo Kovacic and Denis Zakaria approaching full fitness, plus Conor Gallagher playing well, the chance has arrived to give Mount a break.
We’re still not sure Potter will take it right away – he may wait for Kovacic or Zakaria to be ready to play from the start, but it’s coming.