UCL: Cole Palmer hands Chelsea injury boost ahead of Napoli clash

Cole Palmer is expected to play some part in Chelsea's UEFA Champions League clash against Napoli, offering a huge boost to manager Liam Rosenior.

The playmaker's return comes at the perfect time for Chelsea, who face a must-win fixture in Naples.

Palmer's return could be pivotal as Chelsea aim to secure a victory to solidify a top-eight finish in their group. A top-eight position would allow them to bypass the two-legged play-off and advance directly to the round of 16.

Palmer has struggled with injury all season and has been sidelined for the past two games, a 1-0 win over Pafos and a 3-1 victory at Crystal Palace, due to a thigh strain. This latest issue is unrelated to the recurring groin injury that has plagued his season.

Despite training in the days leading up to the Crystal Palace match, the game was deemed to have come too soon for the English international.

However, having now participated in training sessions on both Monday and Tuesday, his chances of featuring against Napoli have greatly improved.

The Chelsea squad is scheduled to fly to Naples on Tuesday evening. Upon arrival in Italy, Rosenior will hold a press conference alongside a player to provide further updates.

It has been a difficult season for Palmer, who has completed a full 90 minutes on only four occasions and has not been fit to represent England since June.