In the automobile industry, probably the most globally inter-connected, the Nissan-Renault tie-up under Carlos Ghosn that seems to be working may be the exception that proves the rule.
With their Champions League last-16 second leg tie away at Inter Milan on Tuesday in mind, Rafael Benitez had the luxury of taking off both Gerrard and Torres.
Chelsea will be hoping he keeps his scoring touch for their midweek Champions League home game against Inter Milan, who lead 2-1 from the first leg of the last 16 tie and are managed by their old boss Jose Mourinho.
Barcelona are travelling 450 miles by coach over two days to Italy for Tuesday's first leg against Inter Milan, while French side Lyon will make a 360-mile road trip for their tie at Bayern Munich on Wednesday.
But Howdes was to have his moment as Schalke wrapped the tie up when 33-year-old Raul, a constant thorn in Inter's side, picked out Howdes with a stunning scooped pass and the centre-back fired into the bottom corner.