With a trip to Anfield and a game against Arsenal looming later next week, Chelsea take a minor detour from the Premier League this weekend with an FA Cup fourth round match against West London neighbors Brentford. A chance to rotate, surely, though Brentford, mid-table in the Championship and featuring several talented players, should pose a tougher test than lower league Peterborough United did in the previous round.
Other than advancement in the cup and half an eye on the following week, a few squad spots may be on the line as well, especially when it comes to youngsters Charly Musonda and Kenedy. If Chelsea are planning on keeping either one of them for the rest of the season, they could (should?) conceivable see playing time in this game. Similarly, the likes of Ruben Loftus-Cheek have been tentatively linked with a loan move away, which could mean final opportunities to impress and convince the head coach (should any such thing still be needed).
There are no injuries of note and no one is suspended (Terry served his one-match ban during a league game for his red card in the previous round of the cup), though there have been some rumors out of Cobham that Gary Cahill will get a (mental) rest break.
Choose wisely.