Maresca fears Chelsea striker Delap faces fresh injury setback

Enzo Maresca is concerned that Liam Delap could be sidelined once more following a shoulder injury picked up by the forward during Chelseas goalless match against Bournemouth on Saturday.

The incident occurred around the 30th minute when Delap clashed with Bournemouths Marcus Senesi during a set piece from a corner kick.

Delap exited the field with his shirt serving as an improvised sling for his arm and Maresca anticipates a lengthy absence for the player.

This recent issue follows a previous groin problem that Delap endured in a game versus Fulham back in August which kept him out for two months in his debut campaign at the club after transferring from Ipswich over the summer.

Still awaiting his initial Premier League strike for Chelsea Delaps unavailability compounds Marescas challenges especially as the team has now gone three matches without a victory.

"He had already missed two months and now he must sit out again" Maresca commented. "The duration is uncertain but his shoulder appears seriously damaged.

"Hes had some bad luck. Were feeling a touch unfortunate too since we require a striker of that profile. We attempted to manage with Marc in that role today."

Though the opening half was lacklustre Chelsea showed better form after the break creating opportunities notably through Pedro Neto who drew a solid stop from Djordje Petrovic and Alejandro Garnacho whose header from Netos delivery struck the upright.

Chelsea attacker Cole Palmer returning following a two month layoff due to various knocks was afforded nearly 60 minutes in his return to the starting lineup since September.

However Palmer squandered his sole clear opportunity as the fourth placed Blues were unable to capitalise on league toppers Arsenals 2 1 loss to Aston Villa on the same day.

"We lacked precision in the attacking zones" explained Maresca with his squad trailing Arsenal by eight points.

"Numerous errors wayward passes near the goal and instances where we should have taken shots.

"Such errors are typical particularly the final ball forward. Cole handled it well overall playing for an hour. Building his match fitness is key for him.

"There was a shortage of sharpness up top though we realise we wont find the net in every fixture."