Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has delivered a significant update on the fitness of star player Cole Palmer, suggesting the England international could finally make his long-awaited return to the starting lineup.
Palmer's Path Back to Fitness
Cole Palmer has been absent for over two months due to a complex series of injuries. The 22-year-old was initially sidelined with a recurring groin issue before suffering a further setback in a freak domestic accident, where he fractured a toe by stubbing it on a door at home.
His return to the matchday squad came in Chelsea's 1-1 draw with Premier League leaders Arsenal on Sunday, 1st December, though he remained an unused substitute. Maresca explained the decision, noting the circumstances of the game—where Chelsea went down to ten men after Moises Caicedo's red card—made introducing Palmer "more complicated."
Maresca's Management Plan
Ahead of Wednesday's crucial trip to face Daniel Farke's Leeds United, Maresca provided a clear roadmap for Palmer's reintegration. "He is available. He can start the game," the Italian boss stated. "The idea of the game is to start giving minutes until he can play 90 minutes."
This careful management extends to other key personnel. Maresca admitted that dealing with the availability of injury-prone captain Reece James is also "complicated," emphasising the need to "do the right thing" to avoid further problems. He praised James's versatility, highlighting his value both at full-back and in midfield for adding physicality.
Chelsea's Resilient Run Continues
The Blues head to Elland Road on a positive note, unbeaten in their past seven matches across all competitions. The hard-fought draw with Arsenal, achieved despite Caicedo's first-half dismissal, demonstrated the squad's resilience.
Maresca acknowledged Caicedo's suspension is a blow, stating "we are a better team with Moi," but insisted the team would adapt as they have during other absences. A victory against Leeds could see Chelsea close the gap on the Gunners to just three points, adding significant stakes to Palmer's potential return.
