It was also a European debut for Chelsea youngster Casadei, who played as an attacking midfielder under Maresca on loan at Leicester City last year but is now exploring a new role

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.