Malo Gusto withdraws from France Under-21 duty with injury

Chelsea right-back Malo Gusto has withdrawn from France Under-21 duty with a muscle injury.

The 21-year-old has been a revelation for the Blues over the past year where he has provided good cover for Reece James.

However, he may not be available for the short-term, having picked up a muscle injury in the 1-1 Premier League draw against Crystal Palace.

Gusto was substituted during the closing stages of that game and he has now withdrawn from international duty with France.

The youngster will receive treatment at Cobham and it remains to be seen whether he can prove his fitness later this month.

James has also been nursing a hamstring issue over the past month, but the Blues captain is anticipated to return pretty soon.

He could be involved in the league trip to Bournemouth next week.

Manager Enzo Maresca may handle him with extra caution, considering his persistent hamstring issues over recent campaigns.

Chelsea are currently 11th in the league table with four points.