Chelsea handed huge Cole Palmer injury update ahead of Arsenal clash
by Josh Holland · football.londonCole Palmer has been included in the England squad for this month's UEFA Nations League double-header against Greece and the Republic of Ireland.
The Chelsea star was on the receiving end of a dangerous tackle by Lisandro Martinez in Sunday's 1-1 draw with Manchester United. VAR checked the incident but decided not to overrule Rob Jones' initial decision of a yellow card.
Palmer has not trained since the incident to place doubt over his availability for Sunday's Premier League clash with Arsenal. However, the 22-year-old has been included in the Three Lions squad for this month's fixtures.
Carsley's decision to name Palmer will come as a huge boost for Chelsea. He will be rested for tonight's Conference League clash with FC Noah but his national team call-up points towards a possible inclusion on Sunday.
Arsenal's Declan Rice was also named in the England squad amid his own injury problems. Palmer's Chelsea teammates Levi Colwill and Noni Madueke will join him at St. George's Park.
Enzo Maresca previously admitted that he may not be available for the London derby, but did say there remained a chance. "Yeah, for sure," he replied when asked about the 22-year-old's chances. "He didn't train the last two days. We will see. Hopefully he can be fit. The tackle, I think it's quite clear, was not a normal one. Hopefully he can be back."
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Maresca will now hope that Palmer can be passed fit for Sunday's Premier League game against Arsenal. Having been instrumental to the Italian's start to life at Stamford Bridge with seven goals and five assists.