Chelsea forward Cole Palmer will not be involved in the Blues’ Carabao Cup quarter-final clash with Cardiff City, head coach Enzo Maresca has confirmed.
The tie is scheduled for Tuesday night at 8 pm in Cardiff, with a place in the competition’s semi-finals on the line.
Palmer only recently returned to action after recovering from groin and toe injuries and was on the scoresheet in Chelsea’s weekend win over Everton at Stamford Bridge. Despite his return, Maresca revealed that the club is taking a cautious approach with the attacker to avoid overloading him.
The Chelsea boss explained that Palmer is currently unable to cope with two matches in three days and will therefore be rested for the cup encounter, though he is expected to be available again at the weekend.
Maresca also spoke highly of Cardiff City and their manager, Brian Murphy, warning that Chelsea face a difficult test.
He described Cardiff as a strong, well-organised side enjoying an excellent run of form, adding that Murphy has done impressive work. According to Maresca, the match will be a dangerous one and Chelsea must remain focused and disciplined if they are to progress.
Chelsea will be aiming to secure a place in the last four of the competition while carefully managing their squad ahead of upcoming Premier League fixtures.
