Chelsea quietly hoping for a double defensive boost ahead of Manchester United game

Chelsea are optimistic that defender Malo Gusto has not suffered a big injury and will be available to play against Manchester United tomorrow night. The 20-year-old was forced off late against Burnley and there had been fears that he would miss the game against Erik ten Hag’s side.

However, LondonWorld sources say the issue has been dealt with in the training ground and Gusto is now likely to be in the starting lineup on Thursday night.

Ben Chilwell who also picked up a knock on England duty and missed the game against Burnley is also reported to be pushing for a return against United. Pochettino hinted he wasn't happy that Chilwell started both of England’s games and the result meant he did not have his captain for a crucial Premier League game.

The Chelsea boss said ahead of the game against The Clarets: 'Still we need to assess a few players like Chilwell who came back from the national team after playing two games after he didn't play with us.”

The potential return of both Gusto and Chiwell will give the Chelsea boss options and experience as they look to secure a massive win and restore confidence in the team after they could only manage a draw at home against Burnley.

Trevoh Chalobah, Reece James, Robert Sanchez and Levi Colwill are all expected to miss the game with little clarity on when they will return. 

Chelsea dropped to 12 on the league table, behind Bournemouth who beat Crystal Palace with Mauricio Pochettino’s side desperate to return to winning ways and keep their hopes of finishing in a Champions League spot alive.