Chelsea have received a significant boost ahead of their crucial encounter with Premier League leaders Arsenal, as manager Enzo Maresca confirmed Cole Palmer's fitness for Sunday's fixture at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues' talismanic attacking midfielder has recovered from his lengthy absence and is available for selection.
"He is available for both," Maresca stated when questioned about Palmer's readiness to feature and potentially start against Arsenal.
The 23-year-old England international's return comes at a pivotal moment for the west London club.
Cole Palmer is ready to play against Arsenal, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca revealed
|REUTERS
Second-placed Chelsea trail Arsenal by six points and view this match as an opportunity to ignite their title aspirations. Palmer's availability represents a timely reinforcement for the Blues' attacking options.
Palmer's injury troubles began in September when a persistent groin problem forced him out of action following Chelsea's victory at West Ham. The midfielder had been struggling with the issue during the opening weeks of the campaign.
His anticipated comeback suffered an unexpected setback when he sustained a fractured toe in a domestic mishap. This unfortunate incident occurred just as he appeared ready to rejoin the squad.
The England international last featured for Chelsea on 20 September and missed Tuesday's impressive 3-0 triumph over Barcelona.
However, he has participated in training sessions this week, utilising specially adapted footwear to accommodate his recovery.
Chelsea will welcome Cole Palmer back into the team after a lengthy injury lay-off
|REUTERS
Maresca expressed his delight at welcoming back the influential playmaker, describing the mood within the squad.
"Everyone is happy, the teammates are happy, we are all happy and the most important thing is Cole is happy," the Italian manager revealed.
The Chelsea boss acknowledged Palmer's significance to the team whilst urging patience regarding his match sharpness.
"He is our best player, we are happy he is back, we need to give him time to be 100 per cent fit," Maresca explained.
Looking ahead, the manager expressed confidence in Palmer's continued contributions. "He has done fantastic in the past and no doubt he is going to do very good for this club in the future."
Sunday's encounter at Stamford Bridge presents Chelsea with an opportunity to narrow the gap at the summit of the Premier League table.
Cole Palmer had been out with a groin injury
| PAThe Blues currently occupy second position, trailing Arsenal by six points in the title race.
Victory against the league leaders would propel Chelsea firmly into championship contention and demonstrate their credentials as genuine challengers.
Palmer's return strengthens their prospects considerably, with his creative prowess and goal-scoring ability having been sorely missed during his two-month absence.
The attacking midfielder has managed just four appearances this campaign, making his availability all the more crucial for a fixture that could shape the trajectory of Chelsea's season.