Though none made a serious case to start against Nottingham Forest on Sunday, some did push their cause for more minutes in the matches that matter. One was Pedro Neto, scorer of a fine volley 39 seconds into the second half which would have set them on their way, but for Gent’s obstinacy.

The Italian’s starting XI played like a group eager to prove they are worthy of a Premier League starting berth.

Enzo Maresca denied that he regrets leaving Ben Chilwell out of Chelsea's squad for the Conference League after his U-turn on the full-back.