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- Palmer not in Conference League squad
- Can be put in after league phase
- Maresca says it is to protect youngster
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WHAT HAPPENED?
Maresca sparked confusion when Palmer’s name was left out of the list of Chelsea players for the group phase of the Europa Conference League this season. The Blues’ most influential player played almost every game last season and is being wrapped in cotton wool by his manager in an effort to keep him fit.
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AFPWHAT MARESCA SAID
Speaking ahead of Chelsea’s match against Gent, Maresca said: “We played some games without Cole, but sure and for us, Cole is something extra that you need. We also need to think a bit to protect some players. They need that. There is a reason behind it and I think Cole needs to be protected.”
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Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR CHELSEA AND PALMER?
With Palmer watching from the stands for Chelsea’s match on Thursday, he will be refreshed and ready to go for their match against Nottingham Forest on Sunday. The 22-year-old scored four times against Brighton last weekend and will be hoping to replicate that feat this weekend.
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