Enzo Maresca
Chelsea are gearing up for a challenging away fixture against Burnley at Turf Moor this Saturday afternoon. As they aim to maintain their position in the standings, currently third after 11 games, manager Enzo Maresca is keen on having a fully fit squad to navigate the demanding winter fixture schedule. The team has been plagued with injuries, affecting key players like Cole Palmer, Liam Delap, and Levi Colwill. Ahead of the Burnley match, Maresca provided updates on the squad’s fitness.
Enzo Maresca said: “He is probably not available for tomorrow, for sure, Barcelona, for sure, Arsenal, for sure. Unfortunately, he had an accident at home with his toe. But it’s nothing important. For sure he is not back next week. He was almost back from the groin [injury], but now he has this small problem.”
Cole Palmer has faced a frustrating season with limited appearances due to a groin injury. A recent accident at home has further delayed his return, ruling him out for the upcoming matches against Burnley, Barcelona, and Arsenal. The Chelsea manager remains hopeful for Palmer’s return in December against Leeds United.
Enzo Maresca said: “Moi [Caicedo] came back last night, I will see him soon. He is good.”
Moises Caicedo, a pivotal figure in Chelsea’s midfield, returned from international duty with Ecuador. Having played full matches against Canada and New Zealand, his availability for the Burnley match remains uncertain as Maresca evaluates his fitness following the intense schedule.
Enzo Maresca said: “Enzo [Fernandez] and Pedro [Neto] used the break to recover their energy and their injuries. They are both available for tomorrow.”
Both Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto have utilized the international break to recuperate from their respective injuries. Their return is a significant boost for Chelsea, with both players expected to feature against Burnley.
Enzo Maresca said: “Benoit [Badiashile] can be available for tomorrow.”
Benoit Badiashile, who has been sidelined with a muscular issue, is ahead of his recovery schedule. Maresca’s recent update suggests the defender might be available for selection against Burnley, providing much-needed depth in the defensive lineup.
Enzo Maresca said: “We don’t have an update at the moment. We need to wait still some hours to do all the checks he needs. For sure, he has an injury. It’s a shame because we are trying to minimise minutes for him, even with that, he is injured again. But we need to persist until we find the right solution for him.”
Romeo Lavia’s injury woes continue, with the midfielder ruled out for the upcoming fixtures due to a thigh problem sustained in the Champions League. Chelsea are cautious with his recovery, aiming to find a sustainable solution to his recurring issues.
Levi Colwill remains Chelsea’s long-term absentee, recovering from an ACL injury sustained in pre-season. His return is not expected this season, adding to the defensive challenges for Maresca.
As Chelsea prepare for their clash with Burnley, the fitness of key players remains a crucial factor in their quest to maintain form and compete at the highest level during this demanding period.
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