Cole Palmer

Blues Boss Maresca Confident Palmer Will Make Impact as Stamford Bridge Hosts London Derby.

Chelsea have received a major boost ahead of their Premier League clash with Arsenal, as Cole Palmer is confirmed fit to start after over two months sidelined with injury.

The 23-year-old winger, who was Chelsea’s top scorer last season with 15 league goals, has not featured since September 20, initially sidelined by a groin problem before suffering a fractured toe.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s Stamford Bridge showdown, manager Maurizio Maresca told AFP (via France 24):

“Everyone is happy, his teammates are happy, we are all happy and the most important thing is that Cole is happy because in the end football players want to play games.”

Palmer has made just four appearances this season, scoring twice, but Maresca described him as probably our best player and emphasized the need to ease him back to 100% fitness.

The Chelsea boss also highlighted the excitement of potentially pairing Palmer with Brazilian wonderkid Estevao, who scored a stunning solo goal in the Blues’ 3-0 Champions League win over Barcelona.

“Depends against which team, depends a little bit on the game plan, but for sure the fans are excited to watch both together,” Maresca said.

On Chelsea’s overall progress, Maresca remained measured:

“For sure it’s different compared to one year ago, and it’s because we spent one more year together… We are still at the end of November, December, so it’s very early and it’s important to be where we are now in March, April, and then we see.”

With Palmer back in contention, Chelsea will be hoping their star winger can help close the gap on league leaders Arsenal and make the London derby a thrilling encounter for fans.