Cole Palmer fit to face Arsenal on Sunday | OneFootball

Chelsea forward Cole Palmer (23) has been passed fit to face Arsenal in Sunday’s Premier League meeting at Stamford Bridge, handing Enzo Maresca a significant boost as his side look to narrow the gap on the league leaders, according to reports from BBC Sport.

Palmer had been sidelined after fracturing his toe in a freak accident last week, forcing him out of victories over Burnley and Barcelona. The England international has endured an injury-disrupted campaign, making only five appearances across all competitions.

But Maresca confirmed on Friday that his top scorer is ready to return. “He is available to start,” the Chelsea head coach said. “Everyone is happy, and most importantly, Cole is happy. A footballer wants to train every day, to play every game. He is our best player. We’re delighted he’s back.”

Maresca urged patience as Palmer builds sharpness, but insisted there is “no doubt” the forward will again be central to Chelsea’s ambitions. Palmer has led the club’s scoring charts in both of his Premier League seasons since arriving from Manchester City for £40m, hitting 22 goals in his debut campaign and 15 last term.

Chelsea have managed impressively in his absence, winning 10 of 13 matches, with summer signing Estevão Willian emerging as a standout performer. Maresca hinted the pair could feature together, though that would depend “on the game plan”.

Second-placed Chelsea can move within three points of Arsenal with victory on Sunday, in what is set to be Palmer’s first appearance since 20 September.

GFN | Finn Entwistle