Cole Palmer yet to return to Chelsea training after ‘not normal tackle’ from Lisandro Martinez as Enzo Maresca delivers injury update with huge Arsenal clash looming

Palmer was on the receiving end of a high challenge from Manchester United’s Martinez in Sunday’s 1-1 draw at Old Trafford. The tackle was bad enough to warrant a VAR review, but referee Rob Jones’ initial decision to show Martinez a yellow card stood.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  The England international hasn’t been included in Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League squad, so there are no concerns about him missing Thursday’s meeting with Noah. But Chelsea face Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday and it’ll be a significant blow for the Blues if he’s unavailable for the London derby.

  WHAT MARESCA SAID

  “Cole didn’t train yesterday so we will see today if he can train with us,” Maresca confirmed on Wednesday. “We hope [he will be available for Sunday]. We need to wait and see and then decide. The tackle was not a normal one. Hopefully he can be back.”

  DID YOU KNOW?

  Palmer has picked up where he left off last season, scoring seven goals and providing five assists in 10 league appearances for Chelsea.

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  WHAT NEXT FOR CHELSEA?

  Chelsea will try to make it three wins from three in the UEFA Conference League when they host Armenian outfit Noah on Thursday. Then it’s the clash with Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal on Sunday as the fourth-placed Blues take on the side one spot beneath them in the table.