Yves Bissouma has been told he will be better for a tough first start of the season.

The Mali midfielder was taken off at half-time at Chelsea.

It was his return to the XI from a lengthy absence due to a shoulder problem having briefly appeared as a substitute at Newcastle.

Head coach Graham Potter said: “It was a tough game to come into in fairness to him.

“We thought he could play a certain role but, as the game panned out, it probably wasn’t the easiest for him to play.

“He has trained a lot and looks good each day.

“But you can’t beat that game time that every player needs.

“He has 45 minutes now and he is available for the weekend and ready to go.”