Jason Cundy believes Malo Gusto’s performance against Newcastle last night went under the radar.
The Blues returned to winning ways with a much needed 3-2 victory and despite staying 11th closed the gap on the top seven to four points with a game in hand.
Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson and Mykhailo Mudryk will take the plaudits for scoring the goals but Cundy feels Gusto stood out again.
The former Chelsea player said via Chelsea’s official app: “I know Gusto won’t get man of the match but I’ve got to tell you he’s been top drawer again.”
Cundy later added at full time: “I want to give big praise to Gusto again.”
The 20 year old has been one of the Blues top performers this season and has really stepped up in the absence of club captain Reece James.
Gusto really looks like the complete modern day full back and is a threat going forward as well as proving defensively capable.
He dealt with the threats of Anthony Gordon and then Miguel Almiron exceptionally well during the 90 minutes.
The Frenchman has provided seven assists in 28 appearances in all competitions so far this season and has established himself as a key player for Mauricio Pochettino.
The recruitment department deserve praise for finding a player who will provide genuine competition for James and still has so much room for improvement.
There’s no denying it—Gusto has played at a level well beyond his 20 years. You expect the energy and perhaps the fearlessness going forward, but his composure in duels and ability to make critical, ball-winning tackles against top attackers is, to put it mildly, breath-taking. I really sat up and took notice when he locked up City’s Doku and Gusto hasn’t faltered since. It’s honestly not too early to ask where else we can slot Reece James (at the 6?) so that we can get both he and Gusto in the lineup!
Joy to watch