Enzo Maresca now has very easy choice to make for Fulham game after Cole Palmer training update

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Enzo Maresca could have a decision to make when Chelsea take on Fulham at Stamford Bridge this weekend.

Maresca was without Cole Palmer for the Blues’ match against West Ham United last Friday after the attacking midfielder had an issue with his groin during the warm-up.

Chelsea were still able to win comfortably in the end, beating their London rivals 5-1. Joao Pedro and Estevao Willian were on fire, with both players registering goal contributions on the night.

Estevao came in for Palmer, but it was Pedro who took his actual position in Maresca‘s set-up, and he may have to do the same thing on Saturday.

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Joao Pedro should start as No.10 as Cole Palmer misses Chelsea training

While there is still time for Palmer to recover for the Fulham game, things are not looking good for the 23-year-old at the moment.

Palmer was absent from Chelsea’s training session at Cobham on Tuesday, making him a doubt for Saturday’s west London derby.

In terms of a potential replacement should the Englishman miss the match, it is a very simple choice for Maresca to make.

Pedro excelled as a No.10 at the London Stadium, scoring one goal and notching up two assists.

Estevao can also operate behind the striker. In fact, Chelsea envision Estevao playing as the 10, according to the player’s agent.

But Maresca should not fix what isn’t broken. Pedro being utilised as an attacking midfielder did the trick against Graham Potter’s men and is the solution this Saturday if Palmer is still out.

Joao Pedro’s numbers against West Ham in full

Pedro’s all-round performance at the London Stadium was excellent, with the Brazilian being absolutely dominant in the air. In total, he won six of the eight aerial duels he competed in.

In the end, Pedro proved to be a massive problem that West Ham could just not handle as the 23-year-old threatened their goal while creating chances.

He finished the game with three shots to his name and two big chances created.

Maresca has talked up Pedro’s flexibility, and Chelsea supporters could get another chance to see it when the Blues welcome Fulham to Stamford Bridge.