Cole Palmer is set to miss the next six weeks for Chelsea, with head coach Enzo Maresca warning the club’s medical staff are “not magicians”.
The 23-year-old has been struggling with a groin injury for much of the season and has not played since being sent off 20 minutes into the 2-1 defeat to Manchester United on September 20.
Maresca shares Palmer blow to Chelsea
Before the international break, Maresca said he hoped Palmer would return for Saturday’s match at Nottingham Forest but, when asked about the progress of the injury, he admitted:
“I was wrong. Unfortunately, he probably has to be out for another six weeks. We’re just trying to protect Cole as much as possible. The most important thing is that when he comes back, he’s in top shape.
“Unfortunately, the medical staff are not magicians. You never know that (delay). He probably needs six weeks. We hope six weeks will be enough. This is a problem that we have to look at step by step, week by week.”
The injury, which first surfaced when he was forced out of the lineup minutes before kick-off in the 5-1 win over West Ham in August, will not require surgery.
“He looks relaxed,” Maresca said. “He’s doing all the therapy he needs. He looks good.”
Caicedo, Fernandez and Neto also concerned about Chelsea injuries
There has been mixed injury news elsewhere in the squad with Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto, who played against Liverpool, all doubtful for the trip to the City Ground.
However, Tosin Adarabioyo and Wesley Fofana are expected to return to alleviate Maresca’s selection issues in defense, while Andrey Santos is also back.
“Moises, Enzo, Pedro did not participate in yesterday’s session, we will see if they can train today otherwise they will be absent tomorrow. Reece (James) is in great shape.”
