Cole Palmer returns to Chelsea training after missing midweek game against Arsenal

The forward missed the Arsenal game due to illness

Prior to their Premier League visit to Aston Villa on Saturday night, Chelsea have received some positive news as Cole Palmer returns.

Due to illness, star striker Cole Palmer missed Monday night’s 5-0 thrashing at Arsenal and his absence was greatly felt as the Blues were a threat going forward.

Just a few hours after coach Mauricio Pochettino pushed his squad to demonstrate they weren’t just dependent on him, the Blues lost badly at the Emirates Stadium.

On Thursday, though, Palmer was observed practising before Saturday night’s match at Villa Park.

In just 47 games for both his club and his nation so far this season, the 21-year-old has already scored 26 goals and provided 11 assists.

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Although it’s unknown when each teammate will return, teammates Christopher Nkunku and Reece James were both photographed at the club’s Cobham training facility.

Last week, Pochettino disclosed that Nkunku, a summer acquisition, is getting close to recovering from a hamstring injury that has kept him out of action since the Carabao Cup final loss in February.

James, on the other hand, hinted last week at his impending injury comeback after hamstring surgery in December. Palmer’s fitness status will be discussed in further detail by Pochettino at his press conference prior to the match on Friday.

Chelsea have fought to climb back into the running for European qualification thanks to their recent performance. Had they won on Tuesday, they would have moved up to seventh place, level on points with Newcastle United in sixth place, ahead of West Ham United and Manchester United.

With six games remaining in the regular season, the Blues will begin their trip to Aston Villa on Saturday and then host Tottenham on May 2. Following the heartbreaking end to their eight-match undefeated streak, Pochettino lamented his team’s lack of regularity.

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