Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel is battling to win over new manager Rafa Benitez. The Daily Mail says the midfielder may be axed from the side for Wednesday's match against Fulham at Stamford Bridge.

As Benitez aims to produce more opportunities for under pressure £50million striker Fernando Torres, Mikel could pay the price for his lack of creativity.

The Spaniard wants to reshape his side and believes that Mikel is too defensive in his position in front of the back four.