Palmer sidelined for additional six weeks with groin issue says Chelsea boss Maresca

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca announced on Friday that Cole Palmer will miss another six weeks due to a groin injury.

The 23-year-old England international has been absent since coming off at half-time during Chelseas 2-1 loss to Manchester United on September 20.

Initially Maresca had expressed hope that Palmer would return following this months international break.

"I was mistaken. Regrettably he will likely be sidelined for another six weeks. That is the latest update" he explained.

The Italian coach whose side faces struggling Nottingham Forest on Saturday expressed confidence that surgery would not be necessary for his player.

"We are focused on safeguarding Cole as best we can and the key priority is ensuring he returns fully fit" he continued.

During his pre-match press briefing Maresca was questioned on whether the extended break would resolve the problem.

"Yes but the medical team are not miracle workers so it is hard to predict with certainty" he replied.

"It may take six weeks we hope that timeframe suffices but we must monitor it progressively week by week. He will certainly recover well though."

Maresca acknowledged the challenge of substituting "one of the Premier Leagues top talents".

"We must adapt by seeking alternative approaches and abilities since no one else matches Coles qualities" he stated. "Cole truly stands out."

Chelsea have also faced defensive injury woes with promising performer Benoit Badiashile unavailable until December.

"He had been performing brilliantly demonstrating his value and how vital he is to us we look forward to his return" the Chelsea manager noted.

On a brighter note Tosin Adarabioyo Wesley Fofana and Reece James have recovered from their ailments and are available for the match against Forest.

Maresca faces a suspension for the away game at Nottingham after his ejection for exuberant celebrations over Estevaos injury-time goal against Liverpool on October 4.

"One factor was that since arriving at the club we had not secured a home victory in the final moments" he clarified regarding his response.

"Additionally we were up against Englands champions the recent Premier League winners so it was a significant occasion. 

"Personally it was merely an instinctive passionate response a typical reaction."