Enzo Maresca’s three solutions for Chelsea after Noni Madueke’s injury news, including playing key man in different position

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Enzo Maresca must really be cursing his luck right now as the injuries continue to stack up for Chelsea at a crucial time of the season.

The Blues are already without Nicolas Jackson up front, who had gained the faith of the manager to the point where he wouldn’t consider anyone else to start up front in the Premier League.

The last game against Brighton saw Christopher Nkunku brandished as ‘useless’ by Gary Neville, however the worst part for out-of-form Blues was that they lost another key player.

Noni Madueke was forced off with an injury in the first half, which has now been reported to keep him out of action for at least the next four games.

The England international has been a regular on the right of attack, and Maresca is going to need to get creative when it comes to his team selection.

The Chelsea Chronicle have listed three ways that the Italian can manage his side without Madueke available.

Three ways Chelsea can replace Noni Madueke after recent injury news

Pedro Neto

Perhaps the most obvious option the Blues have is to start Pedro Neto on the right wing.

The Portugal international has been competing with Madueke for a place in the side for the majority of the campaign.

While he has contributed to less league goals this season, there have been calls to see more of the former Wolves man this season.

Glenn Hoddle has pleaded for Neto to start every game, and now he could be in for a chance at some regular starts at last.

Tyrique George

When the game was lost against Brighton last time out, Maresca threw Tyrique George onto the pitch for a rare Premier League outing.

George was praised for his cameo at the Amex, and he is certainly in the conversation for a first league start.

The youngster has shown he can feature on both wings, and has impressed when given more regular chances in the Conference League.

It would be a risk for the boss to put so much pressure on a player so inexperienced, however George has already proven he can be up to the task.

Cole Palmer

Despite being Chelsea’s most important player this season, Cole Palmer’s role has differed under the new manager.

This season has seen the PFA Young Player of the year operate in a central role, in comparison to his time under Mauricio Pochettino where he worked off the right.

While his last few games have seen him struggle to contribute with goals and assists, this has not been for the want of trying.

Palmer has created an insane amount of chances since late December, however this has not resulted in a single assist for his underperforming attacking teammates.

Palmer looked unstoppable on the right last season, and he could help get the best out of an overlapping full-back, whether that be Reece James or Malo Gusto.