Enzo Maresca explains Malo Gusto's early substitution

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has revealed that Malo Gusto's half-time substitution against Barrow last night was pre-planned.

The Frenchman picked up a muscle injury before the last international break and he made his comeback in the Carabao Cup third round last night.

Gusto had a lively opening half at Stamford Bridge, but he was subbed at the interval. Maresca has now confirmed that it was already planned.

He said: "Yes, it was planned. In the first-half, Malo went inside on that side and in the second-half, we did the same but on the left side with Chilly inside. But it was planned already."

The Blues have had plenty of troubles in the right-back role. Reece James has been nursing a hamstring injury from the start of the campaign.

Gusto has just recovered from a similar problem and Maresca was probably wary of playing him for 90 minutes against the League Two leaders.

Chelsea host Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League on Saturday. Gusto could start the game and may not feature for more than an hour.