Liam Rosenior’s excellent start to life at Chelsea could be extended even further when the Blues host London rivals West Ham on Saturday.
Rosenior has started at Stamford Bridge with five wins from his first six games, including a massive Champions League victory against Napoli this week.
The boss took some risks with his squad selection in Italy, notably only starting one centre-back in the form of Wesley Fofana.
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Reece James operated in a more central role, with Malo Gusto back in the side at right-back.
iam Rosenior coach of Chelsea FC during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between SSC Napoli and Chelsea FC
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Liam Rosenior must drop Malo Gusto for Chelsea vs West Ham
Gusto didn’t score highly in our player ratings from that game, and The Chelsea Chronicle are arguing that the Frenchman should drop out of the side for the upcoming fixture.
He has endured injury issues in recent weeks, and Rosenior could do with every player being fit and firing as the fixtures continue to come thick and fast.
There is no doubt Gusto was one of Chelsea’s most improved players in 2025, and he played a starring role under Enzo Maresca when he was in charge.
Injuries have held him back since the new manager came in, although there is a clear option who can come into the side should Gusto drop out.
Chelsea FC v Pafos FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD7
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Rosenior must replace Gusto with Josh Acheampong
With James’ fitness likely to be managed too, the opportunity is there for Josh Acheampong to start again after not featuring against Napoli.
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West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo speaking about Chelsea's squad
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Rosenior has handed Acheampong plenty of opportunities already, including starting at the back during the first leg of the EFL Cup semi-final against Arsenal.
It is important that whoever is in charge of the club continues to hand the young talents the chance to feature at Stamford Bridge, especially if they are sought after in the transfer market.
Crystal Palace are the latest club to show interest in Acheampong, with them searching for a replacement for the recently-departed Marc Guehi.
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