Nine players that could miss Chelsea vs Aston Villa including Cole Palmer update and key returns
Chelsea receive a major fitness boost with Cole Palmer, Estevao, and Liam Delap cleared to play against an injury-hit Aston Villa side.
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has delivered a significant injury boost ahead of Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Aston Villa.
The most notable update concerns talisman Cole Palmer; Maresca confirmed that after a managed return to action, the playmaker is finally “physically ready for a 90-minute shift.”
Chelsea will also welcome back Liam Delap and Estevao, both of whom have recovered from shoulder and muscular issues, respectively, to bolster the Blues’ attacking options.
While the return of key forwards provides optimism, Chelsea’s midfield and defense remain depleted.
Romeo Lavia continues to be sidelined with a persistent quad injury, and defender Levi Colwill remains a long-term absentee due to an ACL problem.
Additionally, Dario Essugo has returned to training following surgery, though his match fitness is still being evaluated.
The squad also remains without Mykhailo Mudryk, who is currently serving a suspension related to an anti-doping charge.
Aston Villa travel to Stamford Bridge facing their own availability crisis, particularly in defense. Tyrone Mings is ruled out with a thigh injury, while Pau Torres remains a doubt due to a back issue.
Unai Emery will also be without former Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley, who faces months on the sidelines.
Further thinning the squad, Evann Guessand is away on international duty for AFCON, and Harvey Elliott’s participation is uncertain following a recent illness.