Liam Rosenior has explained why Cole Palmer is not part of Chelsea’s squad for Wednesday’s Champions League match against Pafos.
The England international trained on Tuesday morning at Cobham but was left out of the squad for the match at Stamford Bridge the following day.
Palmer has had a stop-start season due to a recurring groin injury, but Rosenior has given a new reason as to why he is not available against Pafos.
It had previously been expected that the 23-year-old would be rested against the Cypriot champions or play only a fraction of the match.
Speaking to broadcasters before the match, Rosenior said: “Cole felt a little bit of tightness in his thigh.
“He just misses out, but he should be absolutely fine for Sunday.”
Standard Sport understands the player is carrying a minor muscle strain.
Chelsea face Crystal Palace on Sunday as they look to build momentum in the Premier League following Saturday’s 2-0 win at home to west London rivals Brentford.
Rosenior continued: “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.”
