They should rest for some games.” Mikel Obi names three players who should be given some games off; outlines five mistakes Enzo Maresca made that cost Chelsea three points vs Fulham.

Chelsea fans woke up to an unexpected loss at Stamford Bridge on boxing day.

The Blues were handed a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Fulham to lose the West London Derby on boxing day.

A stunning solo goal from Cole Palmer put the Blues in control as he broke the record for most goals scored in a calendar year for Chelsea (26). And Enzo Maresca’s men played some scintilating football throughout the half without adding to their advantage.

Levi Colwill saw his goal chalked off for offside early in the second half and that gave Fulham some hope as they pressed forward, as Harry Wilson produced the goods with a close-range header to equalise.

The Blues paid the price for squandering some gilt-edged chances as substitute Rodrigo Muniz stunned the home crowd with a stoppage-time winner to earn Fulham their first win on Chelsea turf since 1979.

For most of the game, Chelsea players were unbelievably sloppy, however, three were evidently poor: Malo Gusto, Levi Colwill and Tosin Adarabioyo all of which had a player rating of 4 per The Express.

Chelsea Legend Mikel Obi is of the opinion that some players deserve to rest.

“For Malo Gusto, The Frenchman didn’t do anything too out of shape, although Fulham were encouraged to attack down the left by the amount of space gifted to Robinson and Iwobi, and Gusto’s lack of aggression in going to close down the ball contributed to that. He was caught completely unaware when Wilson headed home.

“Levi Colwill on the other hand although bagged an assist for the Palmer solo goal, the defender was solid at the back too and won some vital duels. He also had a goal ruled out for offside. But some slack positioning for the late goals and questions must be asked about where he was for the Muniz winner.

“Tosin Adarabioyo who was facing his former club six months after leaving on a free transfer, was bypassed by Fulham’s quick runners on a few occasions and had a few uncomfortable moments. Oblivious when it came to Wilson’s whereabouts for the equaliser.

“Although Robert Sanchez had his moments too, the Chelsea stopper is not left out. After making a couple of smart stops in the first half, he made a fine save by smothering Robinson’s effort in the second half. He could do nothing to stop the goal, although his part in gifting the second was evident.

“Although now is no time to lay blames, all four players have been performing week in and out and could use some rest. We could try Jorgensen for Sanchez, and introduce some fresh legs in the coming games.” He added.

Five mistakes Enzo Maresca made that cost Chelsea three points:

Many fans have outlined possible reasons for Chelsea’s defeat vs Fulham with Enzo Maresca taking all the blames. Cole Palmer for example was played in LHS which didn’t go well with many fans.

Enzo Maresca’s substitutions also cost Chelsea.

A handful of Chelsea stars dipped below their usual level in the Fulham loss, including Jadon Sancho. Chelsea Legend Mikel Obi has also outlined where Enzo Maresca got it all wrong:

“Even with several Blues individuals struggling, Chelsea manager Maresca only made one substitution against Fulham. Christopher Nkunku replaced Nicolas Jackson for the final stages, but where were the changes earlier on when the momentum was shifting in Fulham’s favour?

“Sancho got a full 90 minutes under his belt on the left wing, which is extremely fortunate when you examine his contribution. He has warranted a place in the best XI in recent times because of his creativity and directness. However, he was non-existent for large spells in the game as he struggled to get anything going.

“Playing 1 DM is risky, invert cucu or play Enzo. Sanchez long balls are awful. I’ve always said it, if we must compete or secure a top finish in the League, we must get a top goalkeeper. We have to capitalize on these mistakes and improve in coming games. ” Obi added.

Chelsea face Ipswich Town on Monday and would be looking to turn things around against the newly promoted side after going winless in two straight games.