Chelsea fans received a significant boost today as star playmaker Cole Palmer returned to training for the first time since suffering a muscular injury earlier this month. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder, who has been a pivotal figure for the Blues this season, is now in contention to feature in next weekâs highly anticipated Premier League showdown against arch-rivals Tottenham Hotspur, scheduled for Thursday, April 3.
Palmerâs return to the training pitch at Chelseaâs Cobham base comes after a challenging period sidelined by a muscle issue that forced him to miss the clubâs 1-0 defeat to Arsenal before the international break. The injury, initially sustained during a training session, also led to his withdrawal from Thomas Tuchelâs first England squad for World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia. Despite undergoing two scansâthe first showing no significant damage and the second aimed at pinpointing the persistent painâPalmerâs recovery had remained uncertain until todayâs positive development.
Reports indicate that Palmer trained with his teammates on Friday, March 28, marking his first full session since the injury occurred. Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, who had previously expressed cautious optimism about the young starâs recovery, will now have six days to assess Palmerâs fitness ahead of the Tottenham clash. The Blues are eager to have their talisman back in action, especially after struggling offensively without him against Arsenal, where they failed to score.
Palmerâs absence has been keenly felt by Chelsea, with the former Manchester City prospect having established himself as a key creative force this season. Despite a recent dip in formâgoing 10 games without a goal prior to his injuryâhis vision, flair, and ability to unlock defenses remain vital to Marescaâs tactical setup. The Italian manager had previously suggested that the enforced break might benefit Palmer both physically and mentally, offering a chance to recharge after a demanding campaign.
âCole is a human being, and itâs normal to have moments where he struggles a little more,â Maresca said earlier this month. âWe donât wish for injuries, but this could give him the rest he needs to come back stronger.â
The timing of Palmerâs return couldnât be more critical. Chelsea, currently pushing for a Champions League spot, face a Tottenham side that has historically provided stern competition in London derbies. With other key players like Nicolas Jackson also nearing a return from injury, Maresca could have a near-full squad to choose from, boosting hopes of a bounce-back performance following the Arsenal loss.
Palmerâs recovery process included a stint in Dubai working with a specialist during the international break, a move that appears to have paid dividends. While Chelsea are expected to make a late call on his involvement against Spurs, todayâs training session has sparked optimism among supporters and pundits alike.