“They’re out” – Enzo Maresca rules out two Chelsea players out of Nottingham Forest clash
Chelsea are now beneath the radar. Enzo Maresca’s team has been unstoppable since returning from the last international break.
The run began with Christopher Nkunku’s late goal at AFC Bournemouth, followed by victories over West Ham, Barrow, Brighton, and KAA Gent.
Maresca’s Conference League victory over Gent on Thursday night was yet another positive step forward. Renato Veiga and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall scored their first club goals, as the Blues dominated the Belgians throughout the match at Stamford Bridge.
The games come thick and fast for Maresca’s men, with Nottingham Forest visiting west London on Sunday afternoon. Cole Palmer, Wesley Fofana and Romeo Lavia all missed Thursday’s game after being omitted from the club’s squad to UEFA, meaning they’ll come into the game fresh.
Fortunately, Chelsea came away from Thursday night without any fresh injury concerns. Reece James’ wait for a first appearance under Maresca will go on with the captain not expected to return this side of the international break.
“His injury is a bit delayed. The most important thing is players come back when they are 100% fit,” Maresca said last month. “Reece is still out. Unfortunately, we don’t have an idea at the moment [when he’ll be back]. In this case, he’s been very unlucky.”
Summer signing Omari Kellyman, who is yet to make his debut for the club, remains out after a hamstring injury. The 19-year-old confirmed he had sustained the problem and is expected to return next month.