EPL Index
·22 April 2024
EPL Index
·22 April 2024
Chelsea faces uncertainty over the availability of star forward Cole Palmer ahead of their crucial Premier League encounter with Arsenal on Tuesday.
Mauricio Pochettino, the manager of Chelsea, has clarified that while Cole Palmer is not suffering from an injury, the England international is battling illness which casts doubt on his participation in the upcoming match. Despite previous denials of injury concerns, Pochettino admitted, “We need to assess tomorrow morning. Today, no. I don’t believe he can be involved but we will assess him tomorrow morning. Even if he is good tomorrow, he may not be able to play.”
Photo: IMAGO
Palmer has been a standout performer for Chelsea in a season fraught with challenges. At just 21 years old, he has rapidly become a pivotal figure at Stamford Bridge. His impressive tally of 20 goals places him alongside former Manchester City teammate Erling Haaland in the race for the Golden Boot, while his nine assists are surpassed by only three other players in the league.
Chelsea v Everton Premier League 15/04/2024. Cole Palmer 20 of Chelsea celebrates at full time with the match ball during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Everton at Stamford Bridge, London, England on 15 April 2024. Editorial use only DataCo restrictions apply See www.football-dataco.com , Copyright: xNigelxKeenex PSI-19461-0067
The potential absence of Palmer is not the only concern for Chelsea as they prepare for the derby at Emirates Stadium. Pochettino also provided updates on other team members: “Malo suffered a minor problem in his knee,” he noted. “I hope it is not a big issue. Chilly also, after the national team, is facing the same problem from the last few weeks.”
Chelsea will make the final decision on Palmer’s involvement on Tuesday morning, which adds a layer of unpredictability to their preparations for one of the season’s most anticipated fixtures.