Behind the two Premier League title chasers, Arsenal and Manchester City, is the race to secure European football for next season.
The two clubs with most to mull over after seeing their top-four hopes dealt a blow are Liverpool and Chelsea.
Arne Slot’s side have put up a disappointing title defence this term and even their bid to finish in the Champions League places is faltering, having lost two and drawn one of their three games prior to this international break.
Liverpool’s defeat by Brighton on Saturday means they will spend the next few weeks sitting fifth, five points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa.
Chelsea, a point further back, are devoid of momentum after four successive losses in all competitions.
Blues boss Liam Rosenior sees this international break as an opportunity to refresh and reset.
“I think the international break has come at a good time for us,” Rosenior said after the 3-0 loss to Everton on Saturday.
“Hopefully, the players get a change. Most of them have to fly across the world and represent their countries, but maybe a reset, maybe some time away to regather their thoughts, may refresh the group.”
The good news for these two faltering sides is fifth is on course to be enough once again to secure Champions League football for next season.
Blues fans, does the international break come at a good time? And what does Rosenior need to focus on before the run-in?
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