BERGAMO, Italy (AP) – Cole Palmer, who has just returned from injury, will be rested ahead of Chelsea’s Champions League trip to Atalanta on Tuesday.
The England forward made his first start for the club since September in Saturday’s goalless Premier League draw with Bournemouth.
“Cole is part of that process at the moment,” Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca said in Monday’s pre-match press conference. “He can’t play, he can’t play two games in a row in three days. We planned that and it’s just a way to protect him.”
Palmer was initially sidelined with a groin issue, but a toe injury delayed his return.
Liam Delap is also absent due to a shoulder injury sustained against Bournemouth, but Maresca has given a positive update on him. “Liam, fortunately there is no fracture, so that’s good news,” the Italian said. “We don’t know at this stage how long he will be out.”
Chelsea beat Barcelona 3-0 at Stamford Bridge last time out and are seventh in the Champions League standings.
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