Why Joao Felix won’t be happy about Enzo Maresca’s update from last night’s press conference | OneFootball

Last night’s press conference saw Enzo Maresca answering questions about today’s game against Heidenheim in the Conference League – but in reality the focus ended up being as much on Sunday’s game against Aston Villa.

Fitness news on two players tells us more about the lineup for that huge game in the Premier League than about tonight’s match, which will (as usual) see a Chelsea B team take on weak opposition hoping to breeze by with minimal effort.

Maresca confirmed that two first team regulars who missed last weekend’s game will be fit for Sunday – but won’t be risked tonight. Malo Gusto and Pedro Neto should be ready to go at Villa:

“Yes, I think so. They both trained with us. We don’t take any risk for tomorrow’s game. I think both can be available for Sunday’s game.”

Enzo Maresca talks about injury issues.

Chelsea set for reshuffle after injury return – Felix unlucky to miss out

The return of the pair is a boost in a few ways. Mainly because Neto is in form, and Gusto plays so many roles that others don’t in this squad.

Chelsea managed to beat Leicester last week without them – and in reality the game was more comfortable than the final 2-1 scoreline, but we still think we’ll look significantly better with them back in the team.

It’s about more than just getting two good players into the lineup – the return of Malo Gusto on the right allows Wesley Fofana to switch back to his usual spot in the centre alongside Levi Colwill, hopefully adding some solidity to the team. Benoit Badiashile would drop out of the team.

If Neto plays on the left, his countryman Joao Felix would be the one dropped, despite a really impressive showing against Leicester. But Neto’s strong form from before the international break makes him likely a must-start for Maresca.