Chelsea are blessed with strength in depth, but their style of play, demands placed on their players by Tuchel's training methods and the various international competitions during the mis-named close season are taking their toll.

Against Brighton, they looked lethargic and were simply over-run.

Chelsea are 'mentally and physically tired' said the Blues boss. "We are the team that plays and plays and plays so you feel it, of course. That's why we need to de-connect, recharge the batteries and come back with hunger and joy to fight these matches. It's necessary."

Tuchel has given his squad the next two days off to try to recover.

Fat chance.