Chelsea manager, Enzo Maresca, has confirmed that midfielder Cole Palmer will be out of action for an additional six weeks due to injury.
Palmer, 23, has not featured for the Blues since September 20, when he was forced off midway through the first half in Chelsea’s 2-1 loss to Manchester United.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Maresca admitted his earlier optimism about Palmer’s quick return was misplaced.
“I was wrong. Unfortunately, he needs to be out probably six more weeks. So, yes, this is the update,” the Italian coach said.
Maresca, however, assured fans that surgery would not be necessary, emphasizing the importance of allowing Palmer a full recovery.
“We’re doing everything possible to protect Cole. The most important thing is that when he comes back, he’s completely fit,” he added.
Acknowledging the midfielder’s influence, Maresca described Palmer as “one of the best players in the Premier League,” noting that his absence poses a major challenge for the team.
“For sure, we need to find a different solution and different skills because we don’t have another player like Cole. Cole is unique,” he said.
Chelsea will face Nottingham Forest in their next Premier League fixture on Saturday in an early kickoff
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