Cole Palmer was not included in Chelsea’s starting lineup against Leeds United on Wednesday due to illness, a fact confirmed by Blues head coach Mauricio Pochettino.
Despite his absence from the initial eleven, Palmer, 21, did manage to make a brief 15-minute appearance off the bench during the FA Cup fifth-round match, which Chelsea won narrowly 3-2 thanks to Conor Gallagher’s 90th-minute goal.
Pochettino elaborated on Palmer’s absence during a post-match interview, citing illness as the reason for his exclusion.
Eni Aluko said during a post-match interview with Pochettino on ITV 4 (9:45pm): “I have to be honest I was surprised to see the starting line-up. I thought you might go with the same team as in the final to see that reaction so I was surprised to see Cole Palmer and Gallagher on the bench.”
Pochettino responded: “I have to tell you, Cole Palmer was sick. Chilwell with some problems and Gallagher also. It’s difficult to explain but I think we are shorter a little bit in the squad, because I think we have a big squad. Look at Enzo and Moi they are playing and playing and playing and we don’t have the players to give some rest, I know it may be a surprise but the changes are because we needed to give some rest.”
Fans were relieved to see Palmer getting some game time, indicating that he is on the road to recovery.
Despite concerns about his absence from the starting lineup, Chelsea’s victory showcased the team’s depth. Hopefully, Palmer will be fit enough to feature in Chelsea’s upcoming league game against Brentford.
Eden Hazard recently praised Palmer as a “top player” on The Obi One Podcast, highlighting his potential contribution to the team beyond scoring goals.
