Liam Rosenior has absolutely done the right thing for Chelsea with Enzo Fernandez ban

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Chelsea will be without Enzo Fernandez for their next two matches after head coach Liam Rosenior took a hard-line stance following the Argentine's recent comments

Liam Rosenior has absolutely done the right thing by taking a stand on Enzo Fernandez.

Ultimately, it will surely spell the end of Fernandez’s career at Chelsea because dropping the vice-captain for two games is a huge statement and will probably strengthen the player’s resolve to leave this summer.

But in a wider context, Chelsea are right to go on the front foot. It is a gamble because you are talking about dropping one of your best players for the FA Cup (their last chance of silverware) and Manchester City (a must-win game for their Champions League hopes).

However, it feels like it has become open season at Chelsea. And the whole club’s philosophy, direction and ambition is being challenged on a regular basis.

Fernandez set the hare running with his comments to ESPN after Chelsea’s 8-2 humbling over two legs to Paris Saint Germain Champions League tie. When asked about his future, Fernandez said: “I don't know. My focus is here for now, we have eight Premier League matches to play and the FA Cup. Then, the World Cup and we'll see after that.”

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That might not seem too explosive. Players often talk out.

But we are talking about the club's vice-captain. One of the players who are supposed to set the standard. And yet he is effectively just opening the door for others.

This week it is Fernandez. A couple of weeks ago it was Cole Palmer. Who next? Moises Caicedo? If other players see Fernandez being able to talk and push for an exit unchallenged, then they will do the same and it completely undermines the manager.

Yes, they face a huge issue if they do not reach next season’s Champions League. Players will be left unsettled. They will wonder about the direction of the club and, as top players, whether they can win trophies at Chelsea.

It feels like every Tom, Dick and Harry are waiting for the BlueCo ownership to fail. That is the problem at the heart of this. But if you allow one player - and it is the captain - to speak out unchallenged then it quickly becomes open season.

Let’s be clear here: Chelsea fans did not like it. Jon Obi Mikel was damning in an interview this week. They might not like the ownership and results right now. But they expect the badge to be respected. That’s the point.

Rosenior immediately referenced it was not his decision alone. It was the club’s decision. His comments were a textbook example of how to handle a tough issue.

He was full of praise and respect for Fernandez, made it clear the club is ambitious but said a “line was crossed.”

Rosenior cannot - and will not - allow himself to be seen as a soft touch. He needs the dressing room to respect him and taking this stand asserts his authority.