Chelsea Squad Hit by Stomach Bug Ahead of Copenhagen Clash, Palmer Among Those Affected
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has revealed that a stomach bug has "probably" spread through the squad, affecting several key players including star midfielder Cole Palmer.
Palmer, who has been a standout performer for the Blues this season, played in Sunday's 1-0 victory over Leicester City despite suffering from fever and diarrhoea the day before. The England international's participation had been in doubt leading up to the match, but he managed to feature in the Premier League encounter. However, his performance was noticeably below his usual standards, as he missed a penalty and extended his goalless run to eight league games.
"Cole, Reece and Christo (Nkunku), first session [today]. Yesterday they weren't here. They all had some problems. Today they are all back and better," Maresca said during his pre-match press conference on Wednesday. When asked if illness had spread through the squad, the Chelsea boss responded: "Probably, yes, I don't know. We see for tomorrow if we use some of them."
The timing of this health issue is particularly concerning as Chelsea prepare to face Copenhagen in the second leg of their Conference League last-16 tie on Thursday. The Blues currently hold a narrow 2-1 advantage from the first leg and will need to be at their best to progress in the competition.
In more positive news for Chelsea fans, Maresca provided encouraging updates on the recovery of Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke. Both attacking players have been sidelined with injuries but are expected to return after the international break. "[Nicolas Jackson] could be back after the international break, Noni [Madueke] also," Maresca revealed. "It's good news. We can recover energy and players and go for the last sprint."
The Italian manager also addressed the situation of Romeo Lavia, who has had a frustrating spell at Stamford Bridge since his £58 million ($74m) move from Southampton 18 months ago. Injuries have significantly limited Lavia's involvement, restricting him to just 13 appearances for the club.
"He's much better," Maresca said of the Belgian midfielder. "He's not in the Conference League squad, unfortunately. The target is the same as Reece James... to be fit until the end and play as much as he can."
After their European commitments, Chelsea will shift focus to a crucial Premier League showdown against Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. The match will be vital for both teams, with Chelsea seeking consistency under Maresca and Arsenal fighting to maintain their title challenge following a recent setback against Manchester United.
