Enzo Maresca has revealed that Malo Gusto and Pedro Neto should both be ok for Sunday’s game against Crystal Palace.
The pair featured in last weekend’s 6-2 win against Wolves but were absent for Thursday night’s defeat against Servette in the Europa Conference League.
The Blues welcome Palace to Stamford Bridge looking to make it back to back Premier League wins heading into the international break, in what would be their 15th consecutive victory against the Eagles.
Neto and Gusto should return against Palace
Maresca rotated heavily on Thursday night and there’s bound to a number of changes to the side again this weekend with regular starters set to return to the side.
It’s already been confirmed that the Blues will be without Romeo Lavia, with it hoped the midfielder will return after the international break.
Neto and Gusto both missed the midweek trip to Switzerland but Maresca has provided a positive update on the pair.
“I think so. Malo [Gusto] and Pedro [Neto], they are both going to be okay for [Crystal] Palace,” he told Chelsea’s website.
It’s a welcome boost for Chelsea with Gusto being one of the club’s best signings and with Reece James serving the final game of his suspension it means the Blues should be able to field a recognised right back.
In regards to Neto it seems Maresca is managing him carefully as the winger hasn’t played a full 90 minutes since February.
The Portugal international made his debut against Manchester City, started the first leg against Servette and played the second half against Wolves.
The 24-year-old has looked sharp and played well against his former side and provided the assist for Joao Felix’s goal.
Both Gusto and Neto are set to be important players for the Blues this season and everyone associated with the club will be hoping they can stay fit for the majority of the season.
We need the two against Crystal Palace. They need to be available