Chelsea could be without star midfielder Cole Palmer once again as the Blues prepare for their upcoming Premier League clash against Brentford.
Manager Enzo Maresca revealed that Palmer is still not back to full training after picking up a knock earlier this month. The 22-year-old limped off during the pre-match warm-up before Chelsea’s emphatic 5-1 victory over West Ham and was also absent in their 2-0 win against Fulham before the international break.
Speaking during his press conference, Maresca explained:
“Cole took part in the session yesterday for the first time. Not the entire session. We have one more session, and we will try with him. We will see if it is okay. Otherwise, he will be out again tomorrow. He is recovering from an injury. It is not about managing him, it’s recovery.”
Meanwhile, striker Liam Delap has been dealt a huge blow after sustaining a hamstring injury against Fulham. Maresca confirmed the 21-year-old forward will be sidelined for up to 12 weeks.
“Liam is around 10 to 12 weeks. Long way to go!” the Chelsea boss stated.
In addition, new signing Alejandro Garnacho, who recently joined from Manchester United, is still working towards full fitness.
“He is working well. For sure, he needs to work. He arrived not 100 percent fit. He needs to work and is working well. Hopefully, soon we can give him minutes.”
Chelsea fans will be eager to see whether Palmer can pass his late fitness test, while Garnacho continues his integration into the squad. However, Delap’s long-term absence will certainly leave Maresca with fewer attacking options.
