Chelsea defender Malo Gusto says he is fully aware that he faces a fight to become a regular at Stamford Bridge.
Malo Gusto has started Chelsea’s last three Premier League matches, but the team’s first-choice right-back and captain Reece James is currently out injured.
When the England international is fit again, he will be expected to slot straight back into Mauricio Pochettino’s side, but Gusto has told L’Equipe that he was well aware of the challenge he faced before joining Chelsea.
“I’m not stupid or crazy,” the French youngster said. “I knew before coming that Reece James is one of the best players in his position. We get on very well. He talks to me a lot. We are in a big club, there must be good players in each position.
“The reason I chose Chelsea is because I have a plan. I know what I’m doing.”
Gusto was key for Chelsea in their only Premier League win so far, producing two assists in their 3-0 victory over Luton Town.
Malo Gusto will get game time
When they are both fit, it is hard to imagine Gusto getting the nod over James. As the 20-year-old has highlighted, his team-mate is one the best players in the world in his position.
With that being said, Gusto is getting minutes at the moment and it would not be a shock if that continued as the season progresses.
Unfortunately for Chelsea, James has not been able to stay injury-free, already picking up a hamstring problem this season.
Because of how important James is to the Blues, Gusto’s move from Lyon was a risk. However, it is currently paying off at the moment.
The France U21 international is now racking up minutes in the Premier League and at one of the biggest clubs in the world, and that may continue if James keeps picking up injuries.
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