Enzo Maresca Provides Update on Cole Palmer’s Availability for Wolves Clash
Cole Palmer’s participation in Chelsea’s upcoming Premier League match against Wolves on Monday evening is uncertain, according to manager Enzo Maresca.
Palmer, a key figure for the Blues, missed Friday’s training session, casting doubt over his availability for the game at Stamford Bridge. Maresca confirmed, “Cole is a doubt; he wasn’t in the session today. Levi [Colwill], Romeo [Lavia], and Enzo [Fernandez] also didn’t train.”
The manager added, “We rely heavily on Cole because he’s a crucial player. Of course, we’d prefer to have him on the pitch, but if he’s unavailable, we’ll adapt and find a solution.”
Palmer sustained a knock during Chelsea’s recent 2-2 draw with Bournemouth, where he required treatment after landing awkwardly in a challenge. However, he managed to continue playing. With Chelsea’s fixture scheduled as the final match of gameweek 22, Palmer has a short recovery window over the weekend.
Maresca may need to make several adjustments to his lineup if Palmer and other key players remain sidelined. Joao Felix could step into Palmer’s role, while Renato Veiga might partner Moises Caicedo in midfield, especially if Fernandez and Lavia are ruled out.
In defense, the potential absence of Colwill, coupled with injuries to Benoit Badiashile and Wesley Fofana, presents a challenge. However, Trevoh Chalobah is back in the squad after being recalled from his loan at Crystal Palace and could form a partnership with academy product Josh Acheampong.
One positive update concerns Reece James, who came off the bench to secure a draw in Chelsea’s last outing. While the club captain is expected to be available, Maresca hinted that a starting role might not yet be feasible.
“For Reece, it’s about managing his situation carefully,” Maresca explained. “If he plays 45 minutes, it shows he’s progressing, but we’re being cautious to avoid another injury. We’ll continue to support him as he works towards full fitness.”
