Chelsea Injury Latest: Rosenior Confirms Palmer Fit for Napoli Clash
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has delivered a crucial injury update ahead of his side's pivotal Champions League encounter with Napoli. The Blues are set to face the Italian giants, and Rosenior has provided detailed insights into the fitness of key players, including a positive assessment on star playmaker Cole Palmer.
Cole Palmer Cleared for Action Against Napoli
Cole Palmer, who has been sidelined for Chelsea's last two matches due to a minor thigh strain, has travelled with the squad to Italy and is expected to feature in the Champions League tie. Rosenior confirmed that Palmer is part of the matchday squad and could start or make an appearance from the bench, offering a significant boost to Chelsea's attacking options.
Addressing speculation about Palmer's future amid managerial changes, Rosenior was unequivocal in his support. "It's simple, Cole's an incredible player," he stated. "The guy sitting next to me [Moises Caicedo], I've seen many players in the group [who are incredible]. I'm not surprised at the timing. A new manager comes in and all of a sudden there's people unsettled. It's not true. Cole's here, he's very happy and I can't wait to see him back on the pitch." This statement reinforces Palmer's commitment to Chelsea and dismisses any rumours of unrest.
Detailed Chelsea Injury List and Return Dates
Chelsea's injury situation involves several players, with varying timelines for their returns. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the current squad's fitness status as provided by Rosenior.
- Cole Palmer (thigh/groin): Available for selection against Napoli after responding well to treatment for his minor strain. Expected to play a role in the match.
- Filip Jorgensen (unspecified): Withdrawn at half-time in the previous game against Pafos, but has travelled with the team and been passed fit. He is ready for selection against Napoli.
- Romeo Lavia (thigh): Nearing a comeback but still completing final fitness checks. Considered a major doubt for the Napoli match, with a more likely return date in mid-February.
- Tosin Adarabioyo (hamstring): Remains out with a hamstring injury sustained against Brentford. Expected to be sidelined for at least another two weeks, targeting a return around February 13.
- Dario Essugo (unspecified): Suffered a setback in training and is facing a significant spell out. Likely unavailable until early March as he recovers.
- Levi Colwill (ACL): A long-term absentee after knee surgery last summer. Ruled out for the remainder of the 2025/26 season, with a return planned for June 2026 pre-season.
Implications for Chelsea's Champions League Campaign
With Palmer and Jorgensen available, Chelsea's prospects against Napoli receive a timely lift. However, the absences of Lavia, Adarabioyo, Essugo, and Colwill mean Rosenior must carefully manage his squad depth. The return of key players like Palmer could be pivotal in navigating this high-stakes European fixture, as Chelsea aim to advance in the competition.
Rosenior's update not only clarifies the immediate fitness concerns but also reinforces squad stability, particularly with his comments on Palmer's future. As Chelsea prepare for this crucial match, fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see how these injury developments impact the team's performance on the European stage.
