Guus Hiddink has admitted that Cesc Fabregas is no longer an indispensable part of the Chelsea team and may have to be benched against certain opponents.
Fabregas has endured a disappointing second season at Stamford Bridge, registering just two goals and three assists in 25 appearances in all competitions, and was booed by Chelsea supporters during a 3-1 win over Sunderland last month amid reports that he, Diego Costa and Eden Hazard had actively worked to ensure the departure of former manager Jose Mourinho.
The Spain international made 47 appearances in all competitions under Mourinho last season as Chelsea surged to the Premier League title, but recent struggles have given rise to reports linking him with a move to Serie A giants Juventus and Inter.
Hiddink substituted Fabregas for Jon Obi Mikel at half-time during last month’s 2-2 draw with Watford at Stamford Bridge, claiming that Chelsea needed more “balance” in midfield. The Nigeria international started in the former Arsenal man’s absence alongside Nemanja Matic against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Monday.
Fabregas missed the game due to a high temperature but is available for selection again as Chelsea prepare to take on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Sunday. Hiddink, however, has revealed that tactical considerations mean the Spaniard is no longer guaranteed to play whenever he is fit.
“There are games where we want to have another tactical balance defensively,” Hiddink insisted. “For me it’s not just a goalkeeper and 10 outfield players; it’s also that we have potential good players until the 14th or 15th man. When they are needed we’ll put them in the lineup.
“One time it’s Mikel, one time it’s Cesc or other people. That depends on the tactics and the strengths of the opponent, especially in midfield.”
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