Chelsea rocked by Cole Palmer injury setback ahead of Brighton clash

Palmer, who has scored two goals in four appearances this season, was forced off after just 20 minutes in the 2-1 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford last weekend.

The 23-year-old suffered a groin problem and was also absent for Chelsea's Carabao Cup victory over Lincoln City in midweek.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Maresca explained: "We decided to protect Cole a little bit in terms of his injuries not getting worse. We decided to rest him for the next two or three weeks before the international break to see if he can recover 100% and be fully fit from the international break."

The Italian coach insisted the injury does not require surgery, adding: "It is just a matter of managing his pain in his groin. With the amount of games, it is something that can happen."

Chelsea's defensive options have also taken a hit, with Maresca confirming that Tosin Adarabioyo is sidelined with a calf problem until after the October international break. He said: "We have Tosin injured and he will probably be out until the international break.

"Wes Fofana had concussion against Lincoln, and the rest are okay. Romeo and Benoit are better. We will see if they can join us tomorrow."

Palmer's absence leaves Chelsea without one of their most influential attackers. While Facundo Buonanotte has caught the eye in recent performances, he is ineligible to feature against Brighton.

Maresca admitted Palmer's loss is significant but remained positive about finding solutions: "We said that with Cole we are a better team, but we need to play games without Cole.

"We are going to play with 11 players, for sure, and we will find a different solution."

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