Chelsea forward Cole Palmer is fit to play against Arsenal in Sunday’s Premier League game at Stamford Bridge.
The 23-year-old England international fractured his toe last week after stubbing it on a door. He missed Chelsea’s wins over Burnley and Barcelona. Palmer has struggled with injuries this season, featuring in only five matches across all competitions.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca confirmed Palmer is available to start. He said the player’s return makes the team and fans happy. Maresca added that Palmer is Chelsea’s best player and will perform well in the future.
Palmer last played in a 2-1 defeat at Manchester United on September 20. Chelsea has played 13 matches since, winning ten, losing two, and drawing one. Palmer joined Chelsea from Manchester City for £40 million in September 2023 and has been the club’s top scorer for the past two Premier League seasons.
In his absence, summer signing Estevao Willian has impressed with five goals in all competitions. Maresca suggested Palmer and Estevao could play together depending on the game plan.
Despite being fit, there is still a question over whether Palmer will start, as Chelsea have performed well without him. Other attacking options include Pedro Neto, Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens, Alejandro Garnacho, and Enzo Fernandez. Maresca may choose his front four based on strategy for the top-of-the-table clash.
Source: BBC