Chelsea have made an inconsistent start to the season, recording impressive victories against strong opposition but also suffering some disappointing defeats.
Their form has dipped in recent weeks, leaving plenty of room for improvement. As a result, several players, as well as head coach Xabi Alonso, have a point to prove and standards to raise.
Here are three Chelsea players who need to raise their levels after the international break, each for different reasons.
Marco Palestra
Marco Palestra has finally started to get opportunities at Chelsea after arriving in the summer and getting injured, but the Italian has plenty of work to do if he wants to become a regular under Xabi Alonso.
The defender has shown his versatility by operating on both sides of the defence, starting consecutive Premier League matches against Manchester United and Sunderland. However, he needs to turn those opportunities into consistent performances rather than simply being viewed as useful squad depth, with a fit Reece James and a Josh acheampong viewed ahead of him in the right back position.
At 21, there is plenty of time to develop, but with competition for places increasing, Palestra must show he has the quality to become a long-term solution at Stamford Bridge.
Wesley Fofana
Wesley Fofana has endured a difficult period at Chelsea, particularly in the last six months with inconsistent performances preventing him from establishing himself as a reliable figure in the backline.
The Frenchman arrived from Leicester City with a huge reputation and a £70 million price tag, but he has struggled to justify that investment across his time at Stamford Bridge. There have been too many occasions when defensive mistakes have raised questions about his concentration, physicality and decision-making.
With Maxence Lacroix currently sidelined, Fofana has an opportunity to rebuild his reputation and cement his place in the starting XI. Having seemingly been earmarked for a potential sale in the coming transfer windows, the Frenchman needs to prove the doubters wrong and show Chelsea supporters that he is still good enough to play a key role at Stamford Bridge.
Otherwise, he may have to accept that a fresh start elsewhere could be the best move for his career.
Cole Palmer
Cole Palmer's importance to Chelsea is big, but even the club's biggest stars are not exempt from criticism. After an injury-disrupted campaign last season, the England international in deserved exile right now needs to remind everyone why he is considered one of the Premier League's most influential attacking players.
Palmer has registered three goals and three assists in the league this season, respectable numbers but below the standards he has previously set. His disappointing display against Sunderland also highlighted how much Chelsea need him to produce moments of quality when games become difficult.
He needs Joao Pedro back quicker than ever in the hope he can help him fire in the goals once more.
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