Cole Palmer’s Injury Baffles Chelsea Manager Maresca

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca says the groin injury affecting Cole Palmer makes no sense.

The player was sidelined for over two months after getting injured against Manchester United in September.

A toe injury also postponed his return, which he made during the 3-1 loss to Leeds United in early December. He played in last week’s goalless draw with Bournemouth but was rested for the UEFA Champions League match against Atalanta, suggesting he might return for the game against Everton on Saturday.

Maresca on Palmer’s injury: It makes no ‘sense’

During the pre-match press conference, Maresca noted that Palmer had “mixed feelings” after training this week.

“It’s the groin,” said Maresca. “Hopefully, it’s not an issue for the whole season, but it’s a day-by-day situation. Some days he feels better, and some days worse.

“For example, after the Leeds match, he felt quite bad the next day and only played half an hour. After Bournemouth, he felt okay and played an hour. There’s no logic to it; it’s based on how he feels each day.”

Maresca also mentioned there has been no discussion about Palmer needing surgery, but he does not have the match fitness to play every few days.

Read – Maresca comments on Chelsea’s form issues

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After being rested against Leeds, Chelsea captain Reece James played the full 90 minutes in midfield against Bournemouth and Atalanta. This was due to Moises Caicedo serving a three-match ban, which ends after this week’s game, and the absence of Romeo Lavia.

There was no update on when Liam Delap might return after his shoulder injury against Bournemouth. “We don’t know yet. It could take two, three, or four weeks. We aren’t sure how many days it will be,” he said.

Wesley Fofana is available for selection after recovering from an eye injury. “He’s available and fine. He participated in the training session yesterday and is completely okay,” Maresca confirmed.

Read – Henry comments on Chelsea’s performance without a key player