Evening Standard
·11 novembre 2024
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·11 novembre 2024
Chelsea could be at close to full-strength after the international break
Chelsea’s injury problems have eased in recent weeks, leaving Enzo Maresca with no shortage of options.
That has been seen in the cup competitions, with the Chelsea boss regularly naming effectively a completely different XI from the Premier League side.
The big worry ahead of Sunday’s draw with Arsenal was Cole Palmer’s fitness, and there is still some concern despite the England star playing the full match.
Romeo Lavia did come off against the Gunners, while Jadon Sancho again was not named in the squad.
Cole Palmer had been a doubt to face Arsenal on Sunday, after he missed training in the build-up to the match following a nasty challenge from Lisandro Martinez a week ago.
The Chelsea star was passed fit and played the full 90 minutes, but he was not at his best and struggled to make an impact.
Palmer was seen moving uncomfortably as he left Stamford Bridge after the match and it remains to be seen whether he joins up with England this week.
Maresca said of Palmer’s fitness: “We didn't take any risks. He was a doubt until the end.
“He's painful now but hopefully nothing important.”
Potential return date: Saturday November 23, 2024 vs Leicester
After an injury-hit first season at Chelsea, Romeo Lavia has finally started to make an impact at Stamford Bridge.
He started again alongside Moises Caicedo for Arsenal’s visit, though Lavia came off with just over 20 minutes remaining.
That came after Lavia had challenged Jurrien Timber and fell to the ground, staying down before he was then replaced. No update was provided after the match.
Potential return date: Saturday November 23, 2024 vs Leicester
Romeo Lavia started against Arsenal but was forced to come off
Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Jadon Sancho has made only two appearances since September.
He watched on from the stands as Chelsea beat FC Noah in midweek and then missed out on the squad against Arsenal.
The winger has been battling illness and a knock recently, and will hope to make a return after the international break.
Potential return date: Saturday November 23, 2024 vs Leicester
Omari Kellyman is still waiting to make his debut for Chelsea, having arrived for £19million from Aston Villa in the summer.
The 19-year-old has not yet recovered from a hamstring injury, but recent reports suggest that Kellyman could return to training by the end of this month, with a view to being available in December.
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