Chelsea Receive Positive Injury News Ahead of Palace Derby
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has delivered encouraging updates regarding the fitness of key players Cole Palmer and Reece James, as the Blues prepare for their crucial Premier League encounter against Crystal Palace this Sunday.
Cole Palmer's Minor Thigh Concern
The attacking midfielder was notably absent from Chelsea's midweek Champions League victory over Pafos at Stamford Bridge, raising concerns among supporters. Palmer missed the 1-0 win due to what Rosenior described as a "really, really minor" thigh issue that emerged during the previous match against Brentford.
"Precautionary. He felt something really, really minor in the game against Brentford," Rosenior explained post-match. "It was actually quite early in the game, so credit to him to keep going through it. But I don't want to risk any players at this stage, especially players of Cole's quality."
Despite Palmer's recent injury struggles this season, including persistent groin problems, this latest concern appears separate and less severe. The manager expressed confidence that the England international has a "really good chance" to feature from the start against Crystal Palace, with the medical team focusing on his preparation throughout the week.
Reece James's Managed Minutes
Chelsea fans also witnessed captain Reece James being substituted at half-time during the Pafos encounter, replaced by Estevao. However, Rosenior clarified this was a pre-planned decision rather than an injury concern, part of a strategic approach to manage the defender's workload.
"Yeah, minutes. And making sure that he's prepared for we're playing Wednesday, Saturday, Wednesday, Saturday," the Chelsea boss stated. "And I want to make sure Reece is available as much as possible because he's an outstanding player and he's a leader in our group."
Champions League Context and Upcoming Challenges
Chelsea's narrow victory against Pafos, secured through Moises Caicedo's second-half strike, leaves the Blues positioned eighth in their Champions League group heading into the final matchweek. The London club faces a challenging away fixture against defending Serie A champions Napoli, where a victory would likely secure automatic qualification for the knockout stages.
Rosenior remained characteristically unfazed by the prospect of facing Antonio Conte's side in Naples, stating: "I think this club has never been daunted about any fixture. We know it will be a difficult game. Antonio is an incredible coach. But yeah, I'm not daunted by that prospect at all."
The manager emphasized his immediate focus remains firmly on the Premier League encounter, adding: "They have to win, which changes the dynamic of the game a little bit. But my focus now is on Crystal Palace. Honestly, I've spoken to the players about how important the next game is. We'll cross that bridge when we get to it."
With both Palmer and James expected to be available for selection, Chelsea supporters can approach Sunday's London derby with increased optimism as their team seeks valuable Premier League points while balancing European commitments.
