Palmer Injured at Home After Near Return From Groin Problem
Chelsea forward Cole Palmer has suffered a fractured toe in an accident at home, ruling him out of three major fixtures against Burnley, Barcelona and Arsenal. The injury comes just as the England international was preparing to return from a groin issue that has sidelined him since September.
The club confirmed that Palmer broke the little toe on his left foot after stubbing it against a door. He had completed training at Cobham earlier in the week and was close to regaining full match fitness before the unexpected setback.
Maresca: ‘It’s Nothing Serious, But He Won’t Play This Week’
Head coach Enzo Maresca said Palmer will be unavailable for at least the next two weeks, noting that the fracture is painful mainly because of how the toe fits into the boot. Palmer was seen walking without difficulty, but the club does not expect him back immediately.
Maresca stressed that the injury is minor but confirmed he cannot feature in the upcoming run of games. Chelsea had aimed to reintegrate the 22-year-old quickly after his groin recovery, but the timeline has now shifted.
Chelsea Moving Forward Without Their Talisman
Palmer has played only three Premier League matches this season and has not featured for club or country since being forced off early during Chelsea’s loss at Manchester United. Despite his absence, Chelsea have shown improved form, winning four of their last six league matches and holding third place in the Premier League.
Maresca praised the team for adapting without one of their most influential players but admitted that his presence on the pitch makes a difference. Chelsea face a demanding stretch as they prepare for domestic and European fixtures without their top creator.
Injury Context: A Blow Ahead of Major Tests
Palmer’s unexpected injury arrives just as competition intensifies for England’s spots ahead of next summer’s major tournament. His performances for both Chelsea and England have strengthened his case, but the latest setback delays his momentum during an important period.
Chelsea will rely on squad depth to navigate key matches, including visits from Barcelona and Arsenal. The club expects Palmer to resume training once the pain from the fracture eases.
Other Squad News
Maresca ruled out reintegrating defender Axel Disasi into the first-team squad, stating that the Frenchman continues to train with the second team. Meanwhile, defender Benoit Badiashile could return from injury in time for the Burnley match.
Chelsea’s upcoming fixtures include Burnley, Barcelona, Arsenal, Leeds and Bournemouth as they continue their push at the top end of the league table.
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