Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has shared an update on his squad as the Blues prepare for their Premier League fixture against Leeds United at Elland Road on Wednesday.

 

In his pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Maresca confirmed that Cole Palmer, who was an unused substitute during Chelsea’s 2-1 loss to Arsenal, is now available for selection. However, the 23-year-old forward will require careful management as he works his way back to full fitness.

 

“Cole is available,” Maresca said. “In the last match, he was on the bench, but with only 10 players on the pitch, it was a bit complicated for him to get involved. The plan is to gradually give him more minutes until he’s ready to play a full 90.”

 

Chelsea will still be without Levi Colwill, who continues to recover from an ACL injury, as well as midfielders Dario Essugo and Romeo Lavia. Maresca provided further clarity on their situations, saying, “Romeo is still in recovery, and Dario has started some sessions but needs to slow down, so he will be out again for this match. The rest of the squad is fine.”

 

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While Reece James delivered a standout performance in midfield against Arsenal, earning Player of the Match honors from Chelsea fans, Maresca suggested the 25-year-old may not start against Leeds. “I’d like to start him, but we need to make the right decision for his long-term fitness,” Maresca explained.

 

With Chelsea looking to bounce back from their recent defeat, all eyes will be on the lineup as they face Leeds in a crucial Premier League clash.

 

SOURCE: Punch