Enzo Maresca confirms groin injury will keep Cole Palmer out of Chelsea vs Fulham clash | OneFootball

Stamford Bridge forms the backdrop for this weekend’s mouth-watering West London derby contest as Chelsea host Fulham at lunchtime on Saturday.

However, the Blues have been dealt a massive blow with Enzo Maresca confirming that his side will have to take on their capital rivals without talisman Cole Palmer in the starting line-up.

The 23-year-old forward suffered a groin injury while warming up ahead of Friday’s emphatic 5-1 win against West Ham United.

He was initially named in the starting XI but was withdrawn after feeling discomfort and has not trained with the first team since.

Palmer was subsequently spotted walking down the tunnel alongside fitness coach Marcos Alvarez, which has left Chelsea fans holding their breath.

However, Maresca has confirmed their worst fear, with the Italian tactician confirming that the game against Fulham will come too soon for Palmer.

He also said the same about Benoit Badiashile and Romeo Lavia, who have been struggling with repeated injury issues throughout their Chelsea career.

Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Maresca said: “Cole [Palmer] is out, Benoit [Badiashile] is out, Romeo [Lavia] is out. The rest are okay.

“I’m always worried, but with Romeo and Benoit, because it has been a long time out, it is normal that they need time. It’s the same as what we’re doing with Wes [Fofana].”

When pressed about the extent of Palmer’s injury, Maresca added, “Cole, we need to see day by day.

“Romeo and Benoit, I don’t think they will be back after the international break, but they will be closer.”

Chelsea will be looking to build on their morale-boosting 5-1 win against West Ham, but they’d have to do so without their talisman.

Maresca and his coaching staff are hoping that Palmer can return to the fold for their Premier League trip to Brentford after the international break.

Estevao stepped in for Palmer and dazzled with his performance. He got an assist and could retain his spot in the starting line-up when Chelsea host Fulham.