Chelsea are facing a crucial test against Tottenham next week, but their preparations have been clouded by uncertainty over Cole Palmer’s fitness.
The 22-year-old midfielder has been sidelined since picking up a muscular issue before the international break, and he has yet to resume training with the squad.
His absence has left the club anxious about whether he will recover in time for the high-stakes derby.
Missed Matches and International Duty
Palmer’s injury kept him out of Chelsea’s recent 1-0 defeat to Arsenal in the Premier League, a loss that underscored his importance to the team.
He was also unable to link up with Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia, further emphasizing the severity of his condition.
While the Blues have continued training at Cobham during the international window, Palmer has yet to take part in any sessions.
Enzo Maresca’s Preparations and Squad Adjustments
Chelsea’s head coach, Enzo Maresca, has been working with the players who remained at the club during the break, including striker Nicolas Jackson, who is expected to be fit for the Tottenham clash after a lengthy absence.
To maintain squad depth, academy players have also been brought in to train with the first team.
However, Palmer’s continued absence from training suggests that Chelsea might have to wait until the last possible moment before making a final decision on his availability.
Optimism Fading as Season’s Demands Take a Toll
Initially, there was hope that Palmer’s injury wouldn’t be serious, even after he underwent a second scan early in the break.
However, with each passing day, his chances of featuring against Spurs seem less certain.
This season has been physically demanding for the midfielder, who had started every Premier League match for Chelsea before his injury.
His absence was felt against Arsenal, despite the team struggling for form in recent weeks.
Chelsea’s Champions League Push and Spurs Rematch
Currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, Chelsea are determined to secure a Champions League spot with a strong finish to the season.
Their previous encounter with Tottenham ended in a thrilling 4-3 victory, in which Palmer played a pivotal role, scoring twice—including a composed Panenka penalty.
With another showdown looming, his potential return could be a game-changer for the Blues.
What’s Next for Palmer and Chelsea?
The coming days will be crucial as Chelsea monitor Palmer’s condition and decide whether he can make a last-minute return.
With a vital match against their London rivals on the horizon, the club will be hoping for a positive update.
If he remains sidelined, Maresca will need to find alternative solutions to keep Chelsea’s momentum going in their pursuit of European football.