5 captains that should be benched

Everyone always says that you need a leader on the field. Someone with experience, with that fire in their bellies, that can help inform and inspire those around them to reach the next level, as and when it is needed.

But, when does the actual quality of those players outweigh their emotional contribution? What if their form makes them more of a hindrance than a help? Here’s a look at 5 captains that should be taking a seat on the sidelines, instead of leading their respective battalions out to battle:

---

#5 Gary Cahill (Chelsea)

Gary Cahill has achieved plenty with Chelsea, but his time could be nearing its end

The England international has had an up-and-down career ever since his surprising move to Stamford Bridge from Bolton Wanderers. Despite winning almost everything at club level, no one ever really appreciated how good he was for the Blues, especially as John Terry suffered on occasions next to him.

However, since Antonio Conte’s appointment, the 31-year-old has looked much more exposed in a back three. His lack of pace, awkward positioning in the role and unease of pulling out wide when needed, have been cruelly exposed this season, much as they were in Chelsea’s defeat to Manchester United during their title-winning campaign.

With Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen waiting in the wings, the amount of upcoming quality-heavy competition should push Cahill to the bench in the near future. While his honest approach to interviews after games is welcome, his form on the pitch might make that redundant, should the Blues wish to mount a serious defence of their crown.

#4 Jeremy Toulalan (Bordeaux)

The 34-year old has had a fine career but seems to be fading

Jeremy Toulalan has been a terrific footballer. Dependable, experienced and has been a success story at every club he’s trotted out with, which includes the international setup of Les Bleus.

His move into centre-back this season with Bordeaux has not gone well and is only hindering the club’s European push. The 34-year-old has never been blessed with any kind of speed and that’s only got worse as he’s grown older, leaving him extremely exposed when there’s no cover available.

It has cost Les Girondins on a number of occasions this season, and the only reason he hasn't already been taken out of the side, is that there isn’t an adequate replacement to fill in. Come January, Jocelyn Gourvenec will surely strengthen his side’s weakest area and unfortunately for Toulalan, that could also coincide with his benching.

#3 Vedad Ibisevic (Hertha BSC)

Ibisevic has proved himself for a number of Bundesliga sides, but age seems to be playing spoilsport

A real talisman of German football, Vedad Ibisevic has scored goals for every team he has played for in the Bundesliga. Whether it’s been Hoffenheim, Stuttgart, or now, Hertha Berlin, the Bosnian has been ever fruitful for whichever team he trots out for.

Last season showed the smallest sign of his powers waning and at 33, without a Bundesliga goal this campaign, he might be on the way out. Davie Selke was bought from RB Leipzig over the summer and despite his injury, he looks set to walk into a starting eleven struggling to score goals.

Add into the mix Ibisevic's penchant for an explosive moment, such as his red card against Mainz before the second international break, should be enough cause for concern. He’d still be a viable option off the bench, but Ibisevic should not automatically warrant a starting berth any longer.

#2 Mark Noble (West Ham)

Noble will always be adored by West Ham fans, but should he continue to be present on the pitch?

Mr West Ham United to some, Mark Noble has always worn his heart on his sleeve. A one-club man that will literally lay down everything for the cause, throwing himself across the pitch and dragging the rest of his team with him on some occasions.

Yet, this season, his influence seems to be on the wane. There’s no doubt about the fans' love, but with the Hammers' abject performances this season, his willpower alone isn’t working and his other limitations have been highlighted in their big defeats.

If he wants to ensure his place, he has to hope the club bring in a solid defensive midfielder beside him. Should they choose a more creative option to boost their attacking intent, then Noble might be confined to the sidelines in the near future.

#1 Gabi (Atletico Madrid)

At the age of 34, Gabi is one of the oldest players on Atletico Madrid's current roster

What a stalwart the Spaniard has been for Atletico Madrid. He personifies the grit and determination that you expect from a Diego Simeone side and Gabi has frequently been an unsung hero in their recent glorious past.

But, the old saying is that time stops for no one and at 34, the midfielder’s career is slowly winding down as the rest of the side start to pass him by. His legs have withered, no doubt from the countless energy used sprinting everywhere for Atleti’s cause, and it’s started to impact how his team functions.

Thomas Partey has slowly, but surely, been introduced in his stead but this should not halt the work that Gabi can still do for the team. With the extra rest, he can possibly still contribute to a long, hard season and what certainly shouldn’t be lost as a result of his current plight, is how much of a warrior he has been for the club.