Paul Merson has named two underperforming Chelsea players that can’t be dropped by Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino due to their price tags.

Merson said: “Chelsea were terrible against Liverpool and deservedly lost 4-1. They were absolutely all over the place and went to Anfield without a center forward.

“As for their midfield, Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo cost a combined €225 million, so how does one leave them out even if they underperform?

“Caicedo was signed for €4m by Brighton a few years ago, now suddenly he’s the most expensive player in Premier League history? You can’t improve that much in 2-3 years, it’s impossible.

“You watch Caicedo and compare him to Declan Rice – it’s like chalk and cheese! For that fee, you have to grab games by the scruff of the neck and make your presence felt, and I can’t remember him doing that too many times at Chelsea.

“The Blues’ midfield was absolutely ripped to shreds against Liverpool and it was embarrassing, to say the least.

“That said, Chelsea’s home form has improved over the past month or so, so I think they’ll win this game 2-1.”