After some showstopping performances for Chelsea in recent weeks, Malo Gusto has opened up on his form and targets for the remainder of the season.
Gusto has come on leaps and bounds this season, adding goals to his game and becoming a key versatile option for Enzo Maresca.
It’s three years since the Frenchman arrived at Stamford Bridge, but this season feels noticeably different.
Gusto is arguably Chelsea’s most improved player this year, and his importance to the side is only going to grow. Good to hear, then, that he isn’t running out of motivation to get better.
Chelsea duo Reece James and Malo Gusto with Club World Cup medals
Photo by Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images
Malo Gusto reckons his best is yet to come at Chelsea
Gusto’s blistering recent form has been a welcome addition of strength to the Blues, and it has freed Reece James up for a new role.
It’s hard to find a reason to drop either of Chelsea’s star right-backs right now.
Despite that, Gusto recently told the Chelsea website that he is far from satisfied, remarking: “Best form of my life? No, I think I’m on my way and progressing step by step. I am not someone who puts pressure on myself.
“I just try to help the team as much as possible and I want to progress in any position where I can play, to help the team. It’s great that I scored my first goals [for Chelsea], but it is not enough for me. I want to do a lot more.”
Malo Gusto is becoming a regular in front of goal!
Has Malo Gusto earned a regular starting spot, even with Reece James available?
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The goal drought is something that stuck to Gusto in recent seasons. It’s not like he is expected to be a consistent source of goals, but 98 appearances was a long time to go without.
He broke that streak against Wolves in November and followed up with a second just weeks later. If he can at least maintain a consistent attacking threat, and continue as he has defensively, there’s no reason he can’t exceed his own lofty expectations.
Gusto open to playing wherever Enzo Maresca needs
We have seen that the Chelsea manager likes using players who are comfortable in multiple positions.
Like his captain Reece James, Gusto is well able to step into the midfield, and even suggests he can be deployed further up the pitch.
START, BENCH, SELL: Marc Cucurella, Reece James and Malo Gusto
Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella coming on for Malo Gusto
Photo by Chris Lee – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Which order are you going with? 🤔
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As he explains: “Personally, I always try to give my best on the pitch, whether that is as a right-back, a midfielder or as a winger. I always just want to do my best and help the team as much as possible.”
Gusto might not be the most lethal of attackers, but he’s willing to play wherever is needed.
That attitude is just one reason why he has become so popular in West London.
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