Having Palmer available would be a huge boost, and The Guardian have reported Chelsea are hopeful he’ll hand them a boost by declaring himself fit. Palmer has made just four appearances in all competitions, and having him back in the match day squad would provide a major boost.

Maresca was unable to provide a firm date on Palmer’s return. There is no chance of the 23-year-old figuring against Barcelona and the Italian boss ruled out this weekend’s almighty clash with Arsenal, although he warned that his return to full, first-team training “for sure it will be soon.”

The 23-year-old had his highly sought-after ‘Ice Cold’ Match Attax card immortalised in a specially made two-metre ice structure before the European blockbuster clash