Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has clarified Noni Madueke’s absence during the Blues’ emphatic 5-0 victory over Morecambe, attributing it to the winger’s illness.

The Italian tactician dismissed any suggestions of controversy surrounding the England international’s omission, especially after Madueke had previously been left out of the squad against Fulham in December for what Maresca described as a “technical decision.”

Following the victory, Maresca explained: “It was just because yesterday he didn’t finish the session. He was unwell.”

The statement reassures fans that Madueke’s absence was strictly health-related and not due to tactical or disciplinary issues.