Cole Palmer speaks out on missing out from squad for Conference League amid Enzo Maresca decision
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Cole Palmer
Cole Palmer has addressed Enzo Maresca’s decision to exclude him from Chelsea’s Europa Conference League matches this season. Despite performing well domestically, Palmer, 22, finds himself out of Maresca’s plans for their upcoming European tie against Panathinaikos. Chelsea trails fourth-placed Aston Villa by just three points in the league. Coach Enzo Maresca has been using the Conference League and the Carabao Cup as opportunities to rotate the squad and give fringe players more playing time.
Enzo Maresca explained the strategy behind the squad rotation, saying: “It’s very clear – we try to protect the players. Romeo Lavia last year struggled to play [due to injury]. It was exactly the same for Wesley Fofana. We are trying to protect the players and give them the right minutes at the right moment.”
Cole Palmer expressed his understanding of the decision.
Cole Palmer said “Enzo explained that it was because it was only my first full season in football last year, and he wants me to be fresh this season. It’s different but you are able to take a bit more of the game in when you’re watching. I do actually enjoy watching it all – but, of course, you wish you were playing sometimes!”
The England international remains optimistic and is preparing to enhance his impressive record of six goals and five assists in eight Premier League games this season ahead of Chelsea’s demanding schedule.
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