Jason Cundy says Chelsea have an 'under the radar' defender who's been almost as good as Malo Gusto this season

Jason Cundy paid tribute to a Chelsea defender during Sunday’s win over Bournemouth by claiming that he’s been almost as good as Malo Gusto this season.

Chelsea secured sixth spot in the Premier League by beating Bournemouth 2-1 on the final day of the campaign at Stamford Bridge.

Moises Caicedo and Raheem Sterling scored the Blues goals to secure European football next season.

The Blues will be playing in the Europa League next season, providing Manchester City beat Manchester United in the FA Cup final. If Man United do win the final later in May, Mauricio Pochettino’s side would go into the Europa Conference League instead.

Photo by Chris Lee – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images

Jason Cundy hails Chelsea defender

Jason Cundy believes Trevoh Chalobah needs big credit for the way he’s performed in Chelsea colours this season.

The Blues defender started the last six games of the league season, including in the Bournemouth victory.

His first appearance of the season wasn’t until February because of injury, playing only 17 times across all competitions this year. However, Cundy puts his impact up there with right-back teammate Malo Gusto.

“He goes under the radar. He’s had injuries this season. He didn’t make his first start for months and months. He’s reliable. I think it’s a case to say he’s been our most consistent defender alongside [Malo] Gusto this season,” Cundy said via Chelsea’s official app (5:32pm, 19 May).

Don’t sell Trevoh Chalobah

The Chelsea Chronicle’s blunt message to the club is to make sure Chalobah is still a Blues player next season.

Unfortunately, there’s current transfer rumours that the 24-year-old versatile defender may be sold in the summer.

The Evening Standard reported earlier in May that Chalobah is one of four Chelsea players that may be allowed to leave in the summer window.

His sale would represent pure profit on the books because he’s a homegrown talent from the club’s academy, but the team need his ability in defence moving forward.

Whether he’s starting right-back or centre-back, Chalobah usually provides a reliable performance.

Chalobah performance vs Bournemouth

WhoScored data highlighted another solid display from Chalobah at Bournemouth, this time at full-back.

  • Match rating – 6.59
  • Interceptions – 2
  • Clearances – 2
  • Tackles – 1
  • Passes – 49
  • Passing accuracy – 85.7%