Chelsea fans are on tenterhooks for an update on Cole Palmer‘s fitness ahead of the critical Premier League match against Arsenal on Sunday. Palmer who has quickly carved out a space for himself as Chelsea’s giant asset, received a heavy challenge by Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez in the side’s 1-1 draw.
National Team Call-Up For Cole Palmer
Despite fitness concerns, Palmer has been selected by the England team for its UEFA Nations League matches against Greece and Republic of Ireland this month. England manager, Lee Carsley, includes Palmer in his squad; that would be a very positive boost for Chelsea. Inclusion shows that the technical bench of the English side thinks Palmer would make it on time, though there is no guarantee. Chelsea hopes that Palmer will not face any more complications from playing for his national team. Since the player is crucial for league matches.
Palmer Not Available In Training: Raises Concern
Since his encounter with Martinez, Palmer hasn’t been spotted at Chelsea’s training pitch. Head Coach Enzo Maresca accepts and confirms Chelsea is being cautious about this. He said, “He didn’t train the last two days. We will see. Hopefully he can be fit.”. This is as close as Maresca got to saying something uncertain, as Palmer’s non-training might mean he’s still not fully fit. Still, Maresca is positive, as Palmer is important to Chelsea’s current lineup.
Martinez’s Tackle On Palmer
Martinez’s tackle was captured by VAR, and the decision was a yellow card only. Chelsea fans considered this at least a red card worthy because now one of their important players will miss the game. Maresca noted that this was no regular tackle. And Chelsea fans, as well as the coaches, cannot help but feel unhappy with this decision, considering Palmer is likely to miss the next game.
Injury Concerns For Arsenal
Chelsea is also not alone in counting important absentees in the run-up to the game. As a couple of key Arsenal players are also nursing injuries. The latter group includes Declan Rice, another regular absentee with constant injury fears that make him resemble Palmer. Mikel Arteta will be hoping he recovers on time; otherwise, Arsenal might face a tough time at Stamford Bridge. The two teams are likely to carry out last minute decisions based on the condition of the players.
A Strategic Game For Maresca
Maresca’s decision is likely to be influenced by Palmer. He will have to consider whether he has an alternative to play in case Palmer isn’t fit enough for Sunday. Luckily, Chelsea possesses a strong bench with players like Mudryk and Pedro Neto. Of course, losing Palmer would be something as he has been in great form lately.
Maresca hinted that while Palmer’s absence would be disappointing, he has potential strategies in mind. He stated, “We have options, but of course, Cole has been important for us. If he’s unavailable, we’ll adjust, but we’re still hopeful.”.
Replacements And Tactical Adjustments For Chelsea
If Palmer is not fit, Maresca may need to adjust and use Mudryk or Neto for the attacking role. It’s where Mudryk has been decent, showing moments of magic that can make something out of this chance. Chelsea’s midfield will also have to contribute if Palmer cannot play. Since it will have to ensure possession and create chances in the face of a very formidable Arsenal defense. Maresca will also look into somewhat changing formation or tactics to ensure Chelsea maintains its offense without giving up on defense.
Conclusion
Whereas there is still no confirmed word about Cole’s fitness. Chelsea fans will be careful and attentive to the matter. Maresca’s cautious optimism seems to invite a “wait and see” approach. At the same time, Palmer’s call to the English team squad indicates that there could be some chance of his recovery. If he is given a clearance, then surely Palmer will create much about the attack front with Chelsea. Since the same Arsenal team is also eager to win.
In the end, Cole’s potential availability against Arsenal will likely be a game time decision. Whether he plays or not, his recovery is crucial for the Blues’ long term plans this season.
Anyway, this PL clash between Arsenal and Chelsea will clear a lot of fog. both sides would know their true strength and where they stand in the title race. And also the fans would know about what to expect their teams.
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