Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has delivered a firm vote of confidence in star playmaker Cole Palmer, declaring he would not swap him for Aston Villa's in-form Morgan Rogers. The Blues host Villa at Stamford Bridge this Saturday in a crucial Premier League clash.
Palmer Ready for Marathon Return
Cole Palmer is primed to complete his first full 90 minutes in more than three months when Chelsea face Aston Villa. The last time the England international played an entire match was in the Champions League away at Bayern Munich back in September. Maresca confirmed the player's careful fitness progression, stating: "He is ready for 90 minutes. The progression for a player is 45 (minutes), 60, 70. The progression is there."
Maresca's Unwavering Faith in His Star
When directly asked by Sky Sports if he would take Villa's Morgan Rogers over his own Cole Palmer, Maresca's answer was immediate and unequivocal. "No," the Italian said. "Because I love Cole, and Cole is my player." Both Rogers and Palmer are known for sharing the same distinctive 'cold' goal celebration, adding a personal subplot to the midfield battle. However, Maresca was keen to frame the contest as a team effort, noting: "For sure, they are going to be important during the game. But I think both players, they need the other 10 around them."
Christmas Break and Touchline Ban
In preparation for the fixture, Maresca has granted his squad a rare Christmas Day off from training. The team will reconvene on Boxing Day to finalise preparations for the match the following evening. Maresca himself will be absent from the touchline, serving a one-match suspension after accumulating too many yellow cards. He is likely to watch from the press box, as he has done previously, but does not believe it will severely limit his influence. "Willy (Caballero) will be there, Danny (Walker) will be there, the coaching staff will be there," he assured.
Team News and Transfer Update
In a boost for Chelsea, young talents Estevao Willian and Liam Delap are both available for selection after recovering from their respective injuries. Off the pitch, the club's brief enquiry for Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo has ended, with the player understood to be favouring a move to Manchester City. Maresca, however, remains fully focused on the task at hand. "I'm focused on Aston Villa," he stated. "I'm not focused on players that can arrive or leave."
Chelsea now face the challenge of halting Aston Villa's impressive 10-game winning streak across all competitions. With Palmer back to full fitness and Maresca's tactical instructions relayed from the stands, the stage is set for a fascinating encounter in West London.
