Chelsea are hopeful that Cole Palmer will be fit to face Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on Sunday after the forward missed the midweek Champions League win over Barcelona. Palmer has been sidelined since September with a groin injury, and his recovery was further delayed last week when he fractured a toe in a domestic accident.
The 23-year-old has trained with the squad this week and could be involved against the Premier League leaders, though head coach Enzo Maresca is unlikely to start him. Chelsea have coped well without Palmer, winning 10 of their 13 matches during his absence, and the label of "Cole Palmer FC" has receded.
Maresca has rotated his squad effectively, with summer signing Estêvão Willian impressing in Tuesday’s 3-0 win over Barcelona. The 18-year-old Brazilian winger scored a stunning solo goal, showcasing the depth Chelsea now possess in attack.
The club are keen to keep expectations in check after the Barcelona victory, aware that Arsenal will pose a far sterner physical test. Palmer’s potential return would be a significant boost, as the former Manchester City player has had a frustrating season and is eager to push for a place in England’s World Cup squad.
