Chelsea get Palmer injury boost as Caicedo spares Blues’ blushes in Pafos win

Chelsea beat Pafos 1-0 in their penultimate Champions League group game but the absence of Cole Palmer from the matchday squad sparked fears of a fresh injury setback

A tight thigh was the reason behind Cole Palmer’s absence from the Chelsea squad that beat Pafos 1-0 on Wednesday night, although Liam Rosenior insists he will be “fine” for the weekend.

The Blues talisman has been plagued by a groin issue this term and the was absent from the squad for the Champions League tie with the Cypriot minnows. Rosenior was still able to name a strong team to take on Pafos – and he had Moises Caicedo to thank for sparing Chelsea’s blushes late in the second half.

Caicedo popped up in the 77th minute to head home the only goal of the game which, as expected, the hosts dominated.

But they were unable to find that finishing touch with Enzo Fernandez’s first half header being ruled out for a push. In the end a diving header from Caicedo was enough to keep Chelsea’s hopes of finishing in the top-eight alive.

JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football’s Facebook page.

READ MORE: Transfer news LIVE: Man Utd target approached by rival, Liverpool eye Van de Ven, Arsenal deal closeREAD MORE: Man Utd left with transfer dilemma as Premier League rivals ‘make approach’ for star

Palmer was on the scoresheet in Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Brentford at the weekend, netting from the penalty spot. His ice-cool nature in front of goal was missed against Pafos and his absence from the team-sheet sparked fears that the former Manchester City man had suffered another injury setback.

But Rosenior, successful in his maiden Champions League outing as Chelsea boss, quelled those fears by insisting Palmer’s omission was purely precautionary and that he would be back for Sunday’s game with Crystal Palace.

“Cole felt a little bit of tightness in his thigh,” he said shortly before kick-off at Stamford Bridge.

“He just misses out, but he should be absolutely fine for Sunday. I’ve got to manage the squad as best as possible and make sure we are fit throughout the season with the sheer amount of games we’ve got in a short space of time.”

Chelsea end the matchweek in that coveted eight place in the table and will likely need to beat Napoli in their final game of the group phase to avoid a two-match play-off.

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us – and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more

£43

£35

Sky

Get the deal here

Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £192 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.

Sky will show at least 215 live Premier League games next season, an increase of up to 100 more.