Why Pedro Neto & Malo Gusto are absent from the Chelsea squad for the Premier League clash with Leicester - explained

Neto, who scored the all-important equaliser against Arsenal in their last Premier League clash, has been left out of Enzo Maresca's matchday squad that will face Leicester City in the Premier League on Saturday. Along with the Portuguese winger, French full-back Malo Gusto will also miss the game.

Maresca revealed that Neto picked up a knock after being kicked during Portugal's UEFA Nations League clash against Poland in the international break. The 24-year-old is yet to regain full fitness and as a result, has been left out of the matchday squad. Gusto, on the other hand, misses out on the game after he fell ill.

Speaking to the club's official website, the manager said: "Malo unfortunately was feeling unwell during the night and misses out today. Pedro suffered a kick during the international break that he hasn't been able to shake off. He's getting better but we can't take a risk with him today."

Neto was released from the Portugal squad by Roberto Martinez, alongside Manchester City's Bernardo Silva, captain Cristiano Ronaldo and Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes. The four players did not make the Seleccao's matchday roster for the final group stage game against Croatia.

After facing the Foxes on Saturday, the Blues will be back in action in Europe next week as they take on Heidenheim in a Conference League clash on Thursday.