Chelsea's Cole Palmer fractures foot: Here's how
What's the story
Chelsea FC's forward Cole Palmer will be sidelined for another week due to a toe injury. He sustained the injury after stubbing his toe on a door at home on Wednesday night. The England international was due to return to first-team training this week after being out for two months with a groin injury. This development is another blow for Chelsea, who will miss Palmer with some crucial matches ahead.
Match absence
Palmer's injury impacts Chelsea's upcoming matches
Palmer's toe injury, which is on the small toe of his preferred left foot, will keep him out of action for a little longer. The 23-year-old will miss Chelsea's next three matches: Saturday's Premier League clash against Burnley, Tuesday's Champions League showdown with Barcelona, and next weekend's home game against Arsenal. "He is probably not available for Saturday for sure, Barcelona for sure or Arsenal for sure," said Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca at a press conference on Friday.
Manager's remarks
Maresca comments on Palmer's unfortunate accident
Maresca added, "Unfortunately, he had an accident at home where he hit his toe. It is nothing important, but he won't be back in the next week." The Chelsea manager also empathized with Palmer by saying that such accidents can happen to anyone. "I wake up many times during the night - I hit my head, my legs, my everything - so it can happen," Maresca said.
Team performance
Palmer's last appearance and Chelsea's current form
Palmer last played for Chelsea in their 2-1 loss to Manchester United on September 20. He was substituted in the 1st half itself after an injury to his groin. Since then, the Blues have played 11 matches across all competitions, winning eight and losing two. They are currently third on the Premier League table. Maresca said, "I think that his team-mates are better players with Cole playing," adding that they need to find a solution when he's not there.