Maresca claims Chelsea must find solution without Palmer and confirms Garnacho arrival

 Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca believes the club must learn to play without Cole Palmer after confirming he will not be available for the clash against Fulham on Saturday.

The Blues take on their West London rivals in the early kick-off, with Maresca’s men looking to capitalise on a commanding 5-1 win over West Ham last Friday.

Palmer did not feature in that match after pulling up with an injury in the warm-up, and will sit out again this weekend – much to the misery of Fantasy Premier League players all over the country.

Speaking in his press conference, Maresca said: “Cole we need to see day by day. Romeo and Benoit – I don’t think they will be back after the international break but they will be closer.

“Two years ago, he [Lavia] didn’t play any games. Last year, he played some games. The target is to give him more games this season. I don’t know [when he will be back].”

“When Cole is not in the game, we need to find different solutions. Hopefully tomorrow we can do the same.”

As a result of his issue, Palmer was also left out of Thomas Tuchel’s England squad.

On that, Maresca added: “I spoke with Thomas a few times. It’s Thomas’ decision. He’s not available tomorrow so it is quite normal that he has shown he has some problems.

Garnacho announcement

Maresca’s conference also came soon after it was revealed that Alejandro Garnacho is set to sign for the London club from Manchester United.

And while that deal has not officially been announced, the Chelsea boss could not hold back his excitment of the arrival.

“I know he is around here,” he said.

“It’s quite clear his position is a winger and I see him as a winger.”

“You can expect anything with the transfer window open – anything can happen in and out.

“I joined the club one year ago saying I was in love with the squad and it has got better. The feeling is the same.”