Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has confirmed in his pre-Brighton press convention that Cole Palmer won’t characteristic once more till after the upcoming worldwide break, because the playmaker continues to battle a persistent groin problem.
The 23-year-old has been managing the issue for the reason that second league fixture of the marketing campaign, finishing a full 90 minutes on just one event within the Premier League this season. His struggles got here to a head final weekend when he needed to be withdrawn simply 21 minutes into the 2-1 loss towards Manchester United.
Reasonably than gamble on aggravating the problem, Maresca has opted to provide Palmer an prolonged break, making it clear that defending the midfielder’s long-term health is the precedence.
‘We determined to guard somewhat bit Cole by way of his accidents not getting worse,’ the Italian defined throughout his pre-match media duties. ‘We determined to relaxation him for the subsequent two or three weeks earlier than the worldwide break to see if he can get well 100% and be totally match from the worldwide break.’
That call comes as a setback for supporters, with Palmer now sure to overlook essential league outings towards Brighton and Liverpool, in addition to Chelsea’s Champions League conflict towards Benfica.
Blow
Palmer’s impression at Chelsea is unimaginable to disregard, with the England worldwide producing 58 aim involvements throughout 98 Premier League matches.
The top coach has overtly acknowledged that the Blues are a extra formidable unit with Palmer on the pitch, however he insists that options should be discovered when the playmaker is unavailable.
Chatting with Sky Sports activities final week, Maresca defined,
‘We want him, little doubt. With Cole we’re a greater crew. However when Cole will not be accessible, we have to discover options and methods to win video games. We did it towards West Ham and Fulham. We have been shut towards Brentford.’
Regardless of Maresca’s makes an attempt to downplay the narrative, Chelsea’s reliance on Palmer stays evident. The 23-year-old was even rushed again from a groin harm to face United earlier than limping off—a transparent indication of the lengths the membership are ready to go to have him concerned.
Tuesday night time’s comeback victory away at Lincoln Metropolis within the EFL Cup third spherical introduced an finish to a irritating three-game winless run. But the current league defeat to Manchester United means the Blues are presently sixth within the desk, a slim three factors forward of Brighton, who go to Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
