CHELSEA star Malo Gusto was hooked at half-time following a horror performance in tonight’s Conference League final.
The Frenchman, 22, had been selected ahead of Reece James for the clash with Real Betis.
APMalo Gusto endured a difficult evening in Poland[/caption]
Gusto was guilty of giving the ball away in the build-up to Abde Ezzalzouli’s ninth minute opener.
The former Lyon ace then failed to atone for his error, with Ezzalzouli running him ragged.
Travelling Chelsea supporters sang James’ name ahead of half-time.
And they were granted their wish after the interval, with boss Enzo Maresca turning to his skipper.
Supporters watching on at home were also relieved to see Gusto hooked.
One wrote on X: “This is a generational disasterclass from Malo Gusto, my eyes are literally hurting, Enzo Maresca this is 100% on you especially when Reece James has been on insane form. Ridiculous.”
While a second huffed: “Sell him this summer.”
And another added: “That’s why you don’t play Malo Gusto over your captain.”
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Ahead of the final, Gusto admitted that he has endured a difficult season.
The France Under-21 international told L’Equipe: “There is competition, you can’t hide behind that. But on my season… there were events that meant that I played a lot and then less.
“Those are the risks of playing at a big club. The objective is now to remain well established. I have confidence in myself.
“I haven’t always shown it, and I haven’t always had the attitude to reflect that. You have to first convince yourself before convincing others.”
“Doubts? Never. I know that, if I am here, it is because I deserve to be. You have to make steps to be even better.
“In the first season, everything was beautiful and rosy, everything went well.
“This year has been a lot more difficult, especially from a personal point of view, for different reasons.
“It has allowed me to learn, especially to understand what my priorities should be. I am very far away from where I should be. It is my responsibility.”
