Five most important international matches for Chelsea players this break

4. Spain (Cesar Azpilicueta) versus Sweden, 14 November

Switching gears to Europe, it is now the part of UEFA qualifying where groups come down to at most three teams fighting over one direct qualification spot and one indirect spot. For Chelsea players, the matches are going to be first versus second even if they don’t look as exciting on paper.

Spain currently sits two points behind Sweden in the group with one less goal on goal difference. This is very much a qualification six pointer and while Sweden isn’t exactly top tier in Europe, they are still good enough to be dangerous and Spain is not quite the Spain from the past decade.

Cesar Azpilicueta’s return to the Spanish national team has been total and he’s expected to start in some fashion as Spain looks to go top. A loss would be disastrous so expect Spain to take advantage of being at home to push their luck. Even a draw would take first out of Spain’s control, so Azpilicueta and company need to get this one over the line.

3. Italy (Jorginho) versus Switzerland, 12 November

The ever excellent Italy finds themselves in a better position than Spain, but not much better. They sit level with Switzerland on points with two goals better on GD. Just like their Spanish counterparts, Italy has a six pointer on their hands that likely settles the group.

Switzerland is always a hard team to gauge as well. Built from dual nationals throughout Europe, Switzerland is extremely flexible in their approach to matches as well as talented. Italy may be the reigning European champion, but they can’t take anything for granted after missing out on the last World Cup.

Jorginho is certain to start at the base of midfield as he looks to lead Italy past the Swiss. A draw wouldn’t be the end of the world, but a win would pretty much put the group to bed with a match to spare.