Chelsea have been dealt an unexpected setback as Cole Palmer will now remain out for another week after suffering a freak toe injury at home. The 23-year-old had been gearing up for his long-awaited return to first-team training following two months out with a groin issue. His comeback was planned for this week, but that timeline has changed again after he fractured a small toe on his left foot. <\/p>
Notably, the incident happened on Wednesday night when Palmer stubbed his toe on a door. The timing is frustrating for both Palmer and Chelsea, who had been optimistic about his recovery. Instead, the Blues will have to navigate another crucial set of fixtures without their most influential attacker.<\/p>
Since Maresca’s arrival, Palmer has been the standout figure in Chelsea’s attack. He was man of the match in the 4-1 Conference League final win over Real Betis last season and picked up Player of the Tournament as Chelsea lifted the Club World Cup in the summer.<\/p>
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca confirmed that Palmer will miss the next three fixtures: Burnley on Saturday, Barcelona in the Champions League and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge next weekend. The manager described the injury as “nothing important” but admitted the forward won’t feature in the coming week.<\/p>
Maresca said,<\/p>
\n“He is probably not available for Saturday for sure, Barcelona for sure or Arsenal for sure. Unfortunately, he had an accident at home where he hit his toe. It happens to all of us. It’s nothing big, but he won’t be back in the next week.”<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>