Enzo Maresca has delivered the latest team news ahead of Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League round of 16 clash against FC Copenhagen, revealing mixed injury updates for his squad.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Maresca confirmed that Cole Palmer, Reece James, and Christopher Nkunku have only just returned to training after missing previous sessions.

“For Cole, Reece and Christo, today has been first session [of the week],” Maresca said. 

“Yesterday they were not here and two days ago we had a rest. Today they trained with us, took part in the session, and we will see tomorrow if we can use some of them.”

However, the Chelsea boss confirmed that Malo Gusto has picked up a fresh injury setback, adding to the club’s growing list of absentees. Meanwhile, Noni Madueke and Nicolas Jackson remain sidelined, though their returns are on the horizon.

“The only new one that is still injured is Malo Gusto. Noni, Nico and the rest are still out. The rest they can play,” Maresca stated.

Encouragingly for Chelsea fans, the Italian provided a positive update on Jackson and Madueke, suggesting both players could be available after the upcoming international break.

“He [Jackson] could be back after the international break, Noni also. That’s good news.”

With two crucial fixtures remaining before the break—against Copenhagen on Thursday and Newcastle in the Premier League on Sunday—Maresca emphasised the importance of managing player fitness before pushing for a strong finish to the season.

“Now before the break we have two games, two efforts, tomorrow and Sunday, and then we have the international break and can recover energy, recover players, and then go for the last sprint.”

Chelsea will aim to secure a strong result in Denmark despite their injury concerns, as they continue their pursuit of European silverware.