Chelsea receives a major lift with the return of Cole Palmer and Wesley Fofana for the Everton match, although the team continues to cope with several significant long-term injuries to key players like Liam Delap and Romeo Lavia.
Chelsea is set to receive a significant boost ahead of their Premier League clash against Everton, with key player Cole Palmer returning from a groin injury.
Manager Enzo Maresca confirmed the England international’s availability after a planned rest period, having missed the midweek Champions League defeat to Atalanta.
Defender Wesley Fofana is also confirmed “fine” and available after an eye injury forced him off the pitch in Bergamo.
Maresca updated reporters on Palmer’s status, stating: “Yes, he is okay. He is better, he is available at the moment with one more session available. He finished the session with us with a mixed feeling but he is okay.”
While the returns are positive, the clubās injury situation remains mixed, with several other players still sidelined due to long-term issues impacting the squad depth across various positions.
The forward line suffers a blow as Liam Delap is expected to be out for several weeks with a shoulder injury sustained against Bournemouth.
Midfielder Romeo Lavia is a continued concern with a muscle problem. Maresca admitted the club remains uncertain about Lavia’s timeline, adding:
“We don’t know yet when he can be back… We don’t know.” Levi Colwill and Dario Essugo are confirmed long-term absentees.