By Ayomide Otitoju
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has confirmed that both Liam Delap and Estevao are expected to be available for Saturday’s Premier League clash against in-form Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge.
Delap has recovered from a shoulder injury sustained during Chelsea’s draw with Bournemouth on December 6, easing fears of a prolonged absence for the £30 million striker. The 22-year-old has endured a stop-start debut season following his move from Ipswich, missing around 10 weeks due to a groin injury suffered on his first home start in August and yet to register his first Premier League goal for the club.
Maresca also welcomed the return of Estevao, who has not featured since making a late substitute appearance in the December 13 victory over Everton, further strengthening Chelsea’s attacking options.
“Estevao is available for Saturday and also Liam Delap,” Maresca said. “We didn’t know exactly how long Liam needed to be out. I’m very happy for both.”
Saturday’s encounter is set to feature a high-profile midfield duel between two of England’s leading No.10s, with Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers facing off against Chelsea’s Cole Palmer as both players look to strengthen their international credentials ahead of next year’s World Cup.
Rogers has been in impressive form for third-placed Villa this season, but Maresca voiced strong support for Palmer. “I love Cole and Cole is my player,” he said. “He’s a good option for Thomas Tuchel, but in the end it’s his decision.”
Maresca also praised Chelsea captain Reece James, who has impressed for fourth-placed Chelsea after several injury-disrupted seasons and played a key role in the Blues’ 2-2 comeback draw against Newcastle.
Asked about James’ leadership, Maresca said: “Absolutely, yes. He is growing in terms of leadership and playing more minutes. We are happy because he is fit and healthy, and because he can be a leader.
“He is one of the main players. He’s an academy player, he’s the captain. When he’s fit, he’s one of the best players we have, no doubt.”
