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€35m Chelsea star backed for injury return to provide relief to Pochettino after Reece James injury

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Chelsea right-back Malo Gusto will have big role to play in Reece James’ absence

Malo Gusto will have big responsibility until March after Chelsea captain Reece James’ hamstring injury will see him remain on the sidelines for 2–3 months. The Frenchman was signed by Olympique Lyons for €35 million (£30.7 million).

This is James’ second hamstring injury after the right-back sustained the same aliment in the season’s opener which was a 1-1 draw with Liverpool.

This time, the Blues signed James’ backup, Gusto, and when the England international was out for a long period, Gusto filled in and was impressive despite playing in a new league.

Malo Gusto has recovered from a knee injury.
Malo Gusto has recovered from a knee injury.

As per Football.London, the 20-year-old is currently recovering from a knee injury sustained during the November international break.

After the MRI scan, it was revealed it wasn’t serious and was a small lesion in the internal lateral ligament. The right-back has also started training with the group and could feature in Chelsea’s next game.

Now he will have to step up in James’ absence, given that the schedule is going to be tight as we head into the end of the year. Chelsea are 12th in the league, and the defeat to Everton has once again raised questions and put pressure on Pochettino.

Considering that Marc Cucurella damaged his ankle and that Ben Chilwell continues to heal from an injury, Pochettino is also at a loss for choices at fullback. Gusto and Ian Maatsen are currently available for Pochettino to start the game.

Reece James suffers another hamstring injury. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Reece James suffers another hamstring injury. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Maatsen hasn’t played fullback yet this season, but he did play right back in a cameo against Brighton & Hove Albion. Fortunately, Pochettino may now choose to stick with him or employ Levi Colwill at left-back.

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Gusto, who is only 20 years old and comes from a different league, has stood out in prior games and has demonstrated his readiness to cover for James in the absence of the injured player. It’s time for him to step up again.