Cole Palmer’s fitness remains uncertain as Chelsea heads to the Etihad for a decisive Premier League battle against Manchester City.
The match, scheduled for Saturday evening, could significantly impact Chelsea’s push for a top-four finish.
Currently fourth in the table, Chelsea trails Arsenal and Nottingham Forest by four points and holds a slim two-point lead over Manchester City.
Although a poor run of just one win in six over the new year dashed their title hopes, securing Champions League qualification remains their primary goal. A victory over a struggling City side would bolster their chances.
However, Chelsea faces a major challenge with Palmer playing through a minor ankle injury sustained last week.
The attacking midfielder managed 84 minutes in the recent 3-1 victory over Wolves and is expected to start against his former club.
When asked about Palmer’s fitness, head coach Enzo Maresca said, “He is better, he is better. He did an unbelievable effort to play against Wolves and he is getting better.”
Despite the return of some players, Chelsea’s injury list remains a concern. Romeo Lavia, who has suffered another setback, is set to miss several weeks, ruling him out of upcoming matches against West Ham, Brighton, and potentially the FA Cup fourth-round tie against Brighton.
“Probably Levi Colwill and Enzo Fernandez, they can be available. It depends on today’s session. Romeo will be out,” Maresca added. “We don’t know [how long Lavia will be out] yet. At least I think a few weeks more.”
Lavia, a product of Manchester City’s academy, would have relished the opportunity to face his former club. Former Premier League defender Michael Dawson recently highlighted the Belgian midfielder’s potential fit for Pep Guardiola’s side, particularly with Rodri’s absence.
“Lavia’s one who would have been perfect for Manchester City and the way they play with Rodri being out,” Dawson said on Sky Sports. “I love what he’s done, went to Southampton, brilliant.
He then had numerous hamstring injuries, gone to Chelsea and struggled a bit with injuries. But when we see him, he is a perfect fit for Manchester City.”
As Chelsea battles injuries and prepares for this crucial clash, all eyes will be on Palmer and his ability to overcome his fitness concerns to lead the Blues against his former team.