Liam Rosenior delivers injury update on Cole Palmer after Chelsea star is left out of Champions League squad against Pafos

Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has revealed Cole Palmer is suffering with tightness in his thigh. 

The new Blues boss explained it was the reason for Palmer’s omission from his squad for the Champions League clash with Pafos on Wednesday night. 

It is not thought to be a serious issue and Rosenior believes the Englishman will be back and available for selection again in time for Chelsea’s game against Crystal Palace. 

Speaking ahead of kick-off against Pafos, Rosenior said: ‘Cole felt a little bit of tightness in his thigh. 

‘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.’

Enzo Fernandez started in the No 10 position for the hosts on Wednesday with Pedro Neto and Alejandro Garnacho either side of him on the flanks. 

Liam Rosenior expects to have Palmer back for the weekend’s game against Crystal Palace

Palmer will be desperate to get back consistently for the west London club after a season so far beset with injury. 

A groin issue kept him out for 12 games earlier in the campaign and he then suffered a broken toe in November. 

The latest issue is his thigh tightness and Palmer will be hoping to shake it off and stay healthy until the end of the season to make his case for and England spot. 

The No 10 role is hugely competitive for Thomas Tuchel’s side ahead of the World Cup, with Jude Bellingham, Morgan Rogers and Phil Foden all strong options to start in the USA. 

Chelsea won their first game under Rosenior against Brentford last weekend and will be looking to back that up at Selhurst Park on Sunday. 

The Blues are looking to strengthen in the transfer window and they are now looking at central defenders, having identified that as an area for improvement. 

Whereas previously they might have simply waited until the summer, plans have been accelerated, and the defensive position is being prioritised.

Jeremy Jacquet of Rennes, 20, is of particular interest and currently the front-runner of their options.