Cole Palmer is going to get many of the headlines after scoring again in the Premier League, but one of his Chelsea teammates deserves just as much praise for his display.
Chelsea beat Brighton 2-1 on Wednesday night at the Amex Stadium in the league. As a result, the Blues are up to sixth in the division table, and their hopes of qualifying for Europe on the final day of the season lie in their hands.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side know they’ll be playing some form of European football next season if they avoid defeat at home to Bournemouth this Sunday.
Cole Palmer scored his 22nd league goal of the season with a beautiful header versus Brighton. Christopher Nkunku got himself on the scoresheet, too.
As much as Palmer deserves the plaudits for another eye-catching performance away to Brighton, the 22-year-old attacker isn’t alone in impressing.
Superb Chelsea player was as good as Cole Palmer vs Brighton
The Chelsea Chronicle feels like Malo Gusto deserves his flowers for another top-class individual display this week.
At the age of 20, the young right-back has shown during this first season with the Blues that he’s someone for both the now and the future.
He was recalled to the starting XI against Brighton after being eased back by Pochettino from injury. However, he’s been a really reliable player for the squad with 36 appearances.
Gusto was superb in both defensive and offensive phases during his 69 minutes on the pitch.
The attack-minded full-back created his ninth assist of the season with his crossed pass to set up Nkunku’s winner.
When defending, the Frenchman was ruthless and aggressive on the South Coast. WhoScored data recorded Gusto made three clearances, two tackles and one interception while on the pitch.
His £26m signing (Sky Sports) from Lyon looks more and more like a bargain with every performance that goes by.
Malo Gusto should have Reece James thinking
Reece James, the Chelsea captain, must be looking across at Gusto this season envious of what he’s doing.
You could argue the Blues have the strongest right-back depth in club football with both Gusto and James, but who will the long-term battle between the duo moving forward?
The Chelsea Chronicle feels James is the best right-back on the planet when he’s fit and firing, but he’s got obstacles with injuries and discipline to beat first. It means the door may be genuinely open for Gusto to build on a stellar first year in west London.
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