Cole Palmer close to ‘out for the season’ for Chelsea amid outrage at Leicester
Cole Palmer escaped being ruled out for the season at Chelsea after a “terrible” tackle by Wilfred Ndidi, according to Joe Cole.
During the first half of the Premier League clash, Ndidi caught the Blues star’s achilles with his studs 22 minutes into the game at the King Power stadium, prompting referee Andy Madley to show a yellow card.
The incident was checked by VAR, who saw no issue with the on-field decision and did not order a review. It is understood they determined that the challenge lacked significant intensity due to Ndidi’s short run-up, justifying the decision to stick with the on-field ruling.
Former Blues midfielder Cole said at half-time on TNT Sports that Ndidi was lucky not to be send off: “Absolutely, he’s been lucky Ndidi. That tackle there, he could hurt him there. If VAR is ever going to step in for reckless endangerment of a player. It’s a terrible tackle.”
Peter Crouch added, “I agree with Joe. It’s dangerous. That could’ve snapped his achilles and that’s something we stamp out of the game. I think VAR has to look at that definitely.”
Cole went on: “The players’ reactions was the key for me, six Chelsea players who were close to the action ran straight to the referee… Look here, as he comes in, bang, right down there. He’s not even going for the ball with that leg. He’s done him… Bang, I’m gonna do you, then he tries to swipe the ball.
“This is a game Leicester where they were miles off it Leicester and at the height of their frustration. He’s lost his rag, he should be sent off. He nearly scores the equaliser. If he plays a part in getting Leicester back in the game I’d imagine Enzo Maresca will be furious.”
In reaction to the explanation he said: “Lacked intensity? He’s jumped, he’s a big athlete. He’s landed on Cole Palmer’s achilles and he, you know, if he, he puts in a wrong position that could be out for the season.”
Crouch agreed: “The thing is, you get sent off for raising your hands and pushing someone. That could have put Cole Palmer out for the season.”
Ex-Premier League striker Darren Bent could also not believe Ndidi escaped a red card against Chelsea.
Bent said on talkSPORT, “It’s awful. There’s intent there. The ball is nowhere to be seen. I’m a little bit surprised they’re not going over to check it. Is it endangering an opponent? Yes. The fact the referee isn’t checking is a bit naughty. He’s got away with one.”
Nicolas Jackson opened the scoring for Chelsea after 15 minutes, and the Blues doubled their lead through Enzo Fernández in the second half. Despite the Foxes pulling one back late in the match, Maresca’s side held on to secure a 2-1 victory, taking home all three points in a thrilling encounter.
Chelsea are on track for Champions League qualification
Football Insider Opinion
The London club have firmly entered the conversation for Champions League qualification next season. A victory over Aston Villa would strengthen their position as one of the leading contenders to secure a top-four spot after two disappointing Premier League campaigns.
This resurgence has been driven, in part, by the development of Jackson. The 23-year-old forward has already netted seven goals in 12 appearances this season, showing significant growth under Maresca. In the recent win against Leicester, the striker showcased his finishing prowess with a stunning outside-of-the-foot strike past Mads Hermansen.
He also demonstrated his playmaking ability against Leicester, delivering a pinpoint cross on the counter-attack that should have resulted in a goal for Noni Madueke, who failed to convert the chance.
In a squad brimming with attacking talent, Maresca has masterfully established a consistent front four comprising Jackson, Palmer, Madueke, and Pedro Neto. Although Neto missed the recent clash with Leicester, Joao Felix slotted into the starting XI seamlessly, providing a dynamic threat from the left flank.
The Italian’s ability to create a fluid and effective attack has been a cornerstone of Chelsea’s rise to third place in the Premier League table.
But that would all be thrown off course if the jewell in the crown, Palmer, were to be knocked out long term, so it was a lucky escape at the King Power.
In other news, Enzo Fernandez sends three-word message to Chelsea fans after shattering blow.
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