Chelsea confirms the return of their 'key player' to the Premier League

Coach Enzo Maresca delivered positive news for Chelsea, confirming that Cole Palmer will make his comeback after two months out, in the upcoming game versus Leeds during the week.

Since the defeat against Manchester United, Palmer has not played any minutes for Chelsea. Although he was ready to play last week, his plans were delayed due to a rare accident at home where he broke a toe. This extended his recovery period. However, Maresca confirmed that everything is fine now and Palmer will feature at Elland Road early morning on December 4th (Vietnam time).

The Italian coach shared with the media: “He is ready. Palmer was on the bench last match, but the circumstances didn’t allow us to bring him on. Now Palmer can start the game.”

He also clarified his plan for using the player: “The idea is to gradually introduce Palmer, increasing his playing time step by step until he is fit enough to play the full 90 minutes.”

Additionally, Maresca admitted he is “struggling” with the decision regarding Reece James: “I really want to start him, but I need to do what is right.” When asked if James could play in midfield, Maresca said: “He can play both positions. James has been a full-back since youth, but he has also played midfield and performed well. Depending on the match and physical demands in midfield, we decide accordingly.”

Chelsea is currently one of the teams closest to Arsenal. Despite playing with a man down due to Moises Caicedo’s red card, The Blues still managed a 1-1 draw against Arsenal last weekend.

Midfielder Enzo Fernandez asserts Chelsea is fully capable of competing for the title: “Of course, we are title contenders. This Premier League season has many strong teams: Liverpool, Man City, Man United... Arsenal is also very consistent. But we have the ability to compete until the end.”

Regarding his choice to join Chelsea, Enzo added: “When Chelsea approached me, I didn’t hesitate. I wanted to reach a higher level and the Premier League is the best place for that. I decided immediately and I’m very happy with this choice.”

Upcoming schedule: Chelsea will visit Leeds midweek. At the weekend, they face Bournemouth, and the following midweek, The Blues play Atalanta in the Champions League. Meanwhile, Arsenal will meet Brentford midweek, then Aston Villa before continuing their European campaign against Club Brugge.

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