The Spain international has scored just one goal in six weeks and was part of an underwhelming Chelsea side that succumbed to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of West Brom in the Premier League on Saturday.

And in a move which suggests that the profligacy is becoming a concern, Di Matteo admitted he has to explore all possible options to rectify the situation even if it means dropping his star striker.

"We will have to assess the whole team and see how everybody is, and how they have recovered," he said.

"But if I believe it is the right thing to do for the team, then yeah, I will leave him out.

"I thought when we moved Daniel (Sturridge) up there he looked a danger (against West Brom). He had a very good chance saved by the keeper and another put wide.

"He was always a threat to the defence - we need to score goals."

The European champions currently sit top of Group E, but with only a point separating first- and third-placed teams.