Enzo Maresca has eased concerns over Cole Palmer’s fitness after the forward appeared in discomfort following Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Servette.
Goals from Christopher Nkunku and Noni Madueke means it handed Chelsea to advantage in their UEFA Conference League play-off with the Swiss side, as the Blues bounced back from defeat to Manchester City in their Premier League opener.
It was a first win as head coach for new boss Maresca, though there were concerns at full-time as Palmer picked up a knock.
The 22-year-old, who was named the PFA Young Player of the Season for 2023/24 this week, appeared to be struggling at the final whistle but Maresca said Palmer will be ‘fine’ for Sunday’s clash at Wolves.
“Cole felt something but he looks fine. They already checked him, he looks okay, hopefully it’s not any problem and he can be available for Sunday’s game.”
Noni Madueke scored the second goal of the game and Maresca outlined what he wants from the winger this season. Madueke has been linked with a potential transfer before the deadline, though has been challenged to show consistency and earn a place in the club’s plans.
“I really like Noni.” Maresca said in his post-match press conference.
“The only problem with Noni is he has to understand he has to be consistent during the week, every training, every training, every training, but he is a good player and he is doing well since he started with us. He is the kind of player I like.
“We have so many games, and if not today it will be the next week. The only thing he has to improve is to be consistent every day, work hard, and then he will get minutes for sure.”
