The England international player suffered a broken toe at his home last week, delaying his return from a thigh injury that kept him out of action since last September.

Palmer’s injury came at a very difficult time, as Chelsea will face its Spanish rival, winner of the Champions League title five times, and then will face the current leaders of the English Premier League.

The last time Palmer participated with Chelsea was than two months ago, in the match that the team lost 2-1 to Manchester United.

Since then, Palmer has missed 12 matches with the Blues, in addition to two international breaks. However, Chelsea and the England national team have performed well in his absence.

Maresca said: “We do not know when Palmer will return, but it will certainly be soon. He is already training on the field, training with the ball and feeling good.”

The Italian coach added: “We are here for tomorrow’s match (against Barcelona), and then we will think about facing Arsenal.”

When asked about the possibility of Palmer participating in the match against Arsenal next Sunday, Maresca said: “I do not think so at the present time.”

Chelsea occupies second place in the English Premier League standings with 23 points, six points behind leaders Arsenal.

Source: Agencies