Chelsea Injury Update: Confirmed Latest on Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson and More | OneFootball

Chelsea Injury Update: Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke Set for Return

The international break could not have come at a better time for Chelsea, with key attacking players edging closer to a return. Enzo Maresca has had to navigate a challenging period without some of his most influential stars, but there is optimism that his first-choice front line will be back in contention when the Premier League resumes.

Chelsea’s most recent defeat to Arsenal underscored their struggles without Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson, as they missed a clinical edge in the final third. However, with the Champions League qualification race intensifying, the Blues may soon receive a much-needed boost.

Cole Palmer’s Recovery Timeline

Arguably Chelsea’s standout performer this season, Cole Palmer was a surprise omission from the squad that faced Arsenal. Maresca confirmed post-match that the midfielder had suffered a minor setback in training, ruling him out of action just before the international break.

“He had, or as we know, last week some problems [with illness]. And unfortunately yesterday he had a very small problem,” Maresca explained. “We think, after the international break, he will be back with us.”

Photo: IMAGO

Palmer’s absence has been felt acutely, given his creativity and goal-scoring ability. He had played every league match until that point, becoming a crucial part of Chelsea’s attacking setup. The expectation is that he will be fit in time for the highly anticipated clash against Tottenham at Stamford Bridge.

Potential return date: April 3 vs Tottenham (H)

Nicolas Jackson’s Road to Recovery

Chelsea have been without a recognised striker for weeks, with Nicolas Jackson sidelined due to a hamstring injury suffered in the 2-1 victory over West Ham. His absence has left Maresca short of options in attack, a problem that was glaring against Arsenal.

“Nico will be out until the international break, probably available after that,” said Maresca in February. Initially, the severity of the injury was unclear, as Jackson’s reaction suggested it might not be serious. However, scans later confirmed a more significant issue, with an expected recovery time of six to eight weeks.

Photo: IMAGO

A return against Spurs seems likely, giving Chelsea much-needed firepower in front of goal. Jackson’s movement and finishing ability will be key in the final stretch of the season, particularly with Champions League qualification at stake.

Potential return date: April 3 vs Tottenham (H)

Noni Madueke’s Return to the Squad

Another player Chelsea fans will be eager to see back in action is Noni Madueke. The winger picked up a hamstring injury during the 3-0 defeat to Brighton, ruling him out for an extended period.

“Noni probably will be out until the international break,” Maresca stated at the time. While his role has not been as pivotal as Palmer’s, Madueke offers depth and versatility in the attacking third, which could prove invaluable in the coming weeks.

Chelsea will hope to have him available as they prepare for a crucial run of fixtures.

Potential return date: April 3 vs Tottenham (H)

Boost for Chelsea’s Run-In

Injuries have disrupted Chelsea’s campaign, but with key players returning, Maresca will have more options at his disposal. Romeo Lavia and Malo Gusto’s recent comebacks have already strengthened the squad, and the return of Palmer, Jackson, and Madueke could inject fresh momentum into the side.

The focus now will be on ensuring these players regain full match fitness ahead of the crucial Tottenham fixture. If Chelsea are to push for a top-four finish, they will need their attacking stars firing on all cylinders.