For the Chelsea fans in the Transfer Tavern, a win against Roma on Wednesday is absolutely essential. It has been a tough few weeks for Chelsea fans, with a loss against Crystal Palace on Saturday really disrupting the enthusiasm of those in the pub. Of course, that defeat followed a loss to Man City prior to the international break, and so their Premier League campaign is going pretty poorly at present.

Fortunately, the Champions League has been somewhat of a saving grace so far, with the Blues currently enjoying a 100% record in the competition. A big win against Qarabag on the opening day was crucial, whilst a last-minute winner against Atletico Madrid has put the Blues in the driving seat. Thus, with a tough game against Roma on Wednesday, Chelsea could put themselves in an incredible position in the group with a good result.

A win could see them effectively secure qualification, barring a disaster in the return round of fixtures, and so the importance of this clash cannot be understated.

With regards to his team selection, Antonio Conte needs to make sure that he picks a side that is capable of putting in a workhorse like performance, particularly given the Blues’ recent poor form, and so he shouldn’t be relying on players that are mistake prone. Chelsea simply cannot afford any more mistakes, and this must have an impact on team selection.

With that said, Conte could risk losing against Roma if he picks these 2 Chelsea players – agreed?

 Cesc Fabregas

Cesc Fabregas has had a decent season, but against Crystal Palace he was a liability.

He lost the ball far too much, and he was unable to create much going forward either. He got away with it against the Eagles on occasion, but the same cannot be said when Roma come to town.

With N’Golo Kante not available to cover for him, the Spaniard looks exposed, and so he should really find himself back on the bench. He doesn’t provide the defensive stability needed to take on the talented Italian outfit.

 Willian

Willian’s tenure at Chelsea has, for the most part, been very good – but he has struggled this season.

Often given a chance ahead of Pedro this term, Willian has done very little to return the faith shown to him by Antonio Conte, and against Crystal Palace, it really cost the Blues.

He slows down attacks and often fluffs his lines going forward, and rarely does he offer the set-piece dominance and work rate that he has become famed for over the last few years.

With Eden Hazard back in the fold, it really is time for Willian to return to the bench – or his poor form could cost Chelsea again.