Cole Palmer was not noted of Chelsea’s Europa Convention League squad as a result of he “must be protected”, Blues head coach Enzo Maresca has confirmed.
The England worldwide was essentially the most notable exclusion from Maresca’s 23-man social gathering, with Wesley Fofana and Romeo Lavia had been different gamers not included.
Palmer, who had extra direct purpose involvements (33) than another participant within the Premier League final season, has constructed on that momentum this time period.
The 22-year-old turned the primary participant in Premier League historical past to attain 4 targets earlier than half-time in a single recreation, together with his quadruple throughout Saturday’s 4-2 victory over Brighton.
And Maresca defined the reasoning behind Palmer’s absence, forward of Chelsea’s Convention League opener towards Gent at Stamford Bridge on Thursday.
Our #UECL marketing campaign begins this Thursday.pic.twitter.com/vmmuc0Fa6T
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) September 30, 2024
“We performed some video games with out Cole, however certain and for us, Cole is one thing further that you just want,” he advised reporters at his pre-match press convention.
“We additionally have to suppose a bit to guard some gamers. They want that. There’s a purpose behind it, and I feel Cole must be protected.”
Chelsea will be capable of amend their squad when the league part of the Convention League ends in January, which means Palmer could possibly be included for the knockout phases, ought to they make it that far.
The Blues may also face Panathinaikos, Noah, Heidenheim, Astana and Shamrock Rovers in the course of the preliminary stage of the competitors.
