Rafa Benitez is ready to make big Chelsea changes to keep himself in his job – after less than a fortnight in charge.
Benitez accepts the heat is on after his winless three-game start as Roberto Di Matteo’s replacement.
And he is set to react by restructuring his side against Danish minnows Nordsjaelland on Wednesday.
Brazilian midfielder Ramires is understood to be first in the Benitez firing-line with the interim manager deeply unhappy at his contribution.
The midfielder’s discipline in a central midfield role has been questioned by Benitez, who is ready to sideline him.
But he has also been frustrated by the lack of different options in his attacking line behind misfiring Fernando Torres.
While the Spaniard accepts the trio of Juan Mata, Oscar and Eden Hazard all have technical ability he is understood to think they are simply far too similar as players.
It means it is unlikely the three will start together in that attacking line, with Victor Moses, seen as more direct and purposeful, set for an extended chance to prove himself a genuine Chelsea player.
Saturday’s embarrassing defeat at West Ham saw the blame game start in earnest as owner Roman Abramovich vented his spleen at the pitiful capitulation that left the Blues 10 points adrift of Manchester United and in their worst league run since 1995.
Technical director Michael Emenalo, seen as the strongest voice in the move to appoint Benitez last month, has been in the middle of the conversations instigated by Abramovich’s anger.
The strength and depth of the squad – which Benitez told Abramovich was a genuine concern during a board meeting last week – is viewed as Emenalo’s responsibility, putting the Nigerian in the line of fire.
If Emenalo is weakened, then that would leave Benitez exposed to Abramovich’s worries, increasing the pressure on the former Liverpool man to make a rapid and radical improvement.
There have been no discussions about relieving Benitez of command after just three games at the helm, and he is expected to lead the team on Saturday’s flight to Japan for the FIFA Club World Cup.
That said though, while a Champions League exit on Wednesday has been factored in following the defeat at Juventus which means Chelsea are no longer masters of their own destiny, a rapid improvement is seen as a basic requirement.
The continuing absences of Frank Lampard, who had intensive treatment on his calf problem before and after a light session on Monday, and knee-injury victim skipper John Terry has hampered Benitez’s plans.
He is desperate for both to return, with Terry’s leadership qualities seen as the most vital component Chelsea are lacking.
Alongside Moses, Benitez has faith in defenders Cesar Azpilicueta and David Luiz, suspended on Saturday, and who will return alongside Branislav Ivanovic, with Gary Cahill making way.
Benitez, who has been told funds will be available for a squad revamp in January, is confident of turning things round.
He feels he can make himself a viable candidate for the long-term succession – especially if, as he suspects, first-choice Pep Guardiola, now also targeted by moneybags Paris Saint-Germain, will turn Abramovich down.
First up, will be a striker as cover for Torres – Bayer Leverkusen’s Andre Schurrle appears the most likely – as well as Metalist Kharkiv forward Taison.
But for Benitez to be sure of being the man to oversee that rebuilding programme, the Spaniard has to get things right, starting against the Danes and continuing with a win at strugglin Sunderland on Saturday.
