Enzo Maresca has revealed Cole Palmer is “feeling good” following his return to individual training after suffering a fractured toe.
Palmer was last week closing in on a return for Chelsea after two months out with his persistent groin problem when he suffered a freak injury at his home last Wednesday.
The England international stubbed the little toe on his left foot on a door, which saw him ruled out of a return to action in Saturday’s 2-0 win at Burnley or against Barcelona or Arsenal this week.
Palmer’s left boot has been adapted, with more cushioning added to the area around his injured toe in a bid to speed up his return.
He has not played for Chelsea since his groin injury forced him off in the 21st minute of the 2-1 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford on September 20. He also missed England duty through injury in all three of the autumn camps.
Issuing an update as he spoke to the media on Monday afternoon ahead of Tueday’s Champions League showdown with Barcelona, Maresca said: “We don’t know when, but for sure [he will be back] soon. He’s already on the pitch and touching the ball. The feeling is good.
“We are focused on tomorrow’s game. The last time I spoke with Cole was yesterday after the session to ask how he was feeling. He was feeling good.”
If all goes well, Palmer could return early in December. Chelsea face Leeds away on December 3 before a trip to Bournemouth on December 6.
