Caballero defends Maresca after Palmer substitution sparks jeers

Chelsea assistant coach Willy Caballero supported Enzo Maresca's choice to substitute Cole Palmer, following the move that drew boos from frustrated supporters in the 2-2 stalemate with Bournemouth on Tuesday.

Chants of "you do not know what you are doing" targeted Maresca when Palmer left the field in the 63rd minute, while Chelsea sought a decisive goal to halt their poor run.

The decision proved costly for the Chelsea manager, resulting in only one victory from their previous seven league matches and more jeers at the end.

Pressure mounts on the Italian coach, as fifth-placed Chelsea has squandered 13 points at home from leading spots.

However, Maresca, who skipped post-match media obligations due to illness, serves as a "model" for the entire team according to Caballero.

"Every fan desires the top players on the field," he remarked. "We share that desire. Yet Cole is recovering from an extended injury.

"Here, we must identify suitable changes to push for victory while protecting our players' wellbeing. 

"We aim to keep them available through the season."

When questioned about Maresca's absence from press duties to discuss the Palmer change, Caballero explained: "He has not been well over the past couple of days. He had a slight fever two days back. 

"He led the final two training sessions and insisted on readying the squad. But post-match, he returned to the locker room and requested I step in as he felt unwell.

"He is handling it admirably and remains highly dedicated. He invests numerous hours daily, even while under the weather these last two days. He is passionate about training and leading. He inspires me and the whole staff."

Bournemouth took an early lead after six minutes via David Brooks, who netted on the rebound after Robert Sanchez's stop, before Chelsea equalised with Palmer's spot-kick.

Enzo Fernandez put the home side ahead afterwards, but the Blues failed to defend it, as Justin Kluivert tied the score before the break following Chelsea's mishandling of a long throw by Antoine Semenyo.

The Ghanaian striker Semenyo, rumoured to be heading to Manchester City, seemed to bid farewell to Bournemouth fans upon exiting the pitch.

Still, Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola believes he will feature against table-toppers Arsenal on Saturday.

"This is not his final appearance with us," Iraola stated. "I cannot guarantee it fully, but I expect him to feature."