Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino praised duo Robert Sanchez and Marc Cucurella.

The former Brighton stars were playing against their old club in the Carabao Cup third round.

While Sanchez started the game nervously, both he and Cucurella grew into the contest, which Chelsea won 1-0.

Post-game, Pochettino stated: “No. I think they showed character and personality.

“I think in the first half sometimes we didn't provide Robert, and sometimes Marc, good angles to play the continuity of the game.

“I think after half-time we fixed some positions and the second half was much better. Even in a difficult moment they showed character and they were calm.

“Never easy to play with situation and the circumstances and today was a must-win and we needed to win this game. Of course always is the intensity and sometimes the pressure to win, sometimes is not to be perfect. I think in the second half we dominate the game and deserved the victory."

On a possible injury to Ben Chilwell, he added: “Yes, we need to assess tomorrow but I think it is hamstring."