Malo Gusto believes that Chelsea ‘can be one of the best teams in the Premier League’ next season after Mauricio Pochettino’s side beat Brighton last night to put them on the brink of securing European football next season.

‘We have a lot of talent. We know that. We can be one of the best teams in the Premier League,’ said Gusto.

‘This season was not very good for us and we know the start of the season was complicated but we need to finish in a good way and that’s what we’re doing,’ the full-back added.

And Gusto insisted that the young Chelsea squad are all behind their manager despite struggles earlier in the season.

Chelsea were 10th just ten games ago but now look set to finish 6th after four wins in a row. A point at home to Bournemouth on Sunday will secure Europa League football next season.

‘We have to be behind the coaching staff, that’s the most important thing. I think that’s why we improved more in the last few games. We just need to enjoy the game, stick together and finish the season well,’ said Gusto.

The 20-year-old French international has enjoyed a productive season, with nine assists for Chelsea, across 36 games in all competitions.

With Reece James absent for much of the season with injury, Gusto has capitalised and was voted by Cole Palmer as his Chelsea player of the season, with Palmer saying that he loves playing with Gusto down the right.

James replaced Gusto off the bench on Wednesday night but was sent off for violent conduct after lashing out at Joao Pedro but Gusto is adamant that his Chelsea teammates must rally around their club captain.

‘This season was complicated for Reece but we are a team and we have to just stay behind him and keep pushing with him,’ said Gusto.

‘He’s very important for the team and he helps us a lot. Especially me, we talk a lot and I’m very happy to play with him,’ he added.

And he was full of praise for his compatriot Christopher Nkunku, who got on the scoresheet at Brighton, with Gusto getting the assist before Nkunku’s trademark balloon celebration.

‘We’re very happy that he is back. He deserved it (the goal). He can help with his experience. He is very technical and knows how we have to play. He helps us a lot and that’s what he did,’ said Gusto.