Chelsea forward Cole Palmer is expected to be out of action until early November due to a groin injury, extending his spell on the sidelines.
The 23-year-old has not featured for the Blues since being forced off during last month’s defeat to Manchester United, disrupting what had been a promising start to the season.
Although initial assessments suggested Palmer could return after the ongoing international break possibly in time for the clash against Nottingham Forest on October 18 but the recovery timeline has now been extended.
Head coach Enzo Maresca recently explained that the club is taking a cautious approach with the England international, saying they want to “protect Cole a little bit to prevent a more serious injury.”
While Palmer’s absence is a setback for Chelsea, it opens the door for Estevão, the teenage Brazilian winger to continue his impressive run. The youngster scored the winning goal against Liverpool and has quickly become a fan favourite since arriving in west London.
Speaking after the Liverpool match, Chelsea assistant coach Willy Caballero praised Estevão’s adaptation and maturity.
“We know young players can struggle when they move from another country to play for a club like this,” Caballero said.
“The team has done a great job helping the new players settle. I speak to him often in Spanish, he’s a really good kid, and we’re happy for him. He needed that goal, and so did we.”
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