Gusto was selected by France head coach and former Blue Didier Deschamps as a replacement for the injured Jules Kounde. The right-back had started both France Under-21 fixtures since this summer’s European Championships, with his form for Chelsea now recognised by Deschamps.

‘He is a young player who already finds himself at Chelsea,’ commented Deschamps in the wake of Gusto’s call-up.

‘He has potential which promises further progression in the months to come.’

Gusto was travelling from London to Paris when he received the news on Monday.

‘I was a bit surprised because I was preparing to represent Les Espoirs [France’s Under-21s] as usual, but when I was on the train, I received a message to say that I was stepping up,’ Gusto explained.

‘It’s a big honour and very good news for me. They were very proud of me and encouraged me to keep going. Now I’m here I want to make an impression on everyone.’

In his short time at Stamford Bridge Gusto has made a significant impression, despite the unfortunate red card he received in the defeat to Aston Villa. The 20-year-old’s interplay, overlapping and crossing ability have all stood out since he came in for the injured Reece James.

‘He is a very good person,’ Gusto said when asked about his fellow right-back Reece.

‘We have really healthy competition. We give each other a lot of advice, he tries to help me and I try to help him as best I can.

‘On the pitch, it’s war, he knows it very well. We don’t necessarily give each other any favours. It’s the best who will play.’

With James expected to be available after the international break, and Gusto’s three-match ban now over, that is a decision Mauricio Pochettino will once more have to make.

Gusto says Pochettino is someone all the players are 'learning a lot off’, noting the ‘culture of work and effort’ the Argentinean has already implemented at Cobham. Extra time in the gym to aid physical development has played its part in that, adds Gusto.

The former Lyon man is learning off his team-mates, too. Asked who in particular has stood out, Gusto plumped for another who made the move from Ligue 1 to the Premier League, albeit at a very different stage of his career.

‘Thiago Silva is one of the greatest defenders in the world,’ enthused Gusto.

‘He’s always on top form, focused on what he’s doing, with amazing professionalism. Seeing that he’s always giving it his all is something that’s beautiful and inspires me a lot.’

Gusto will now be hoping to make his France senior debut when they play the Netherlands on Friday. Gusto’s compatriot Axel Disasi has withdrawn from the squad through injury.