Palmer out of Chelsea’s Carabao Cup quarter-final – Maresca

Chelsea forward Cole Palmer will miss the club’s Carabao Cup quarter-final clash against Cardiff City, head coach Enzo Maresca has confirmed.

The match will take place on Tuesday night in Cardiff, with a place in the semi-finals up for grabs.

Palmer recently returned from injury and scored in Chelsea’s win over Everton at Stamford Bridge. However, Maresca said the player will be rested to avoid further injury.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, the Chelsea manager said Palmer is not yet fit enough to play two matches within a short period.

According to Maresca, the club is taking a careful approach with the young attacker, adding that he should be available for the weekend league fixture.

Maresca also warned that Cardiff City will be a tough opponent, praising their current form and their manager, Brian Murphy.

He said Cardiff are playing well, winning matches, and sitting at the top of their league, making the game a difficult test for Chelsea.

Chelsea will be aiming to reach the semi-finals of the competition while managing the fitness of key players ahead of their Premier League commitments.