Chris Smith

Fri 22 August 2025 20:06, UK

Chelsea have been dealt a major blow in their Premier League clash against West Ham, with Cole Palmer forced to withdraw through injury.

The Blues are looking to kick-start their campaign following a disappointing goalless draw at home to Crystal Palace on the opening day.

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Palmer is key to Chelsea’s hopes of continued success this season, having registered 43 goals and 29 assists in 98 appearances for the club to date.

However, Enzo Maresca’s side will have to do without the England international on Friday night.

Palmer was initially named in the starting line-up at the London Stadium, but doubts emerged as the attacking midfielder was spotted leaving the warm-up early with a member of Chelsea’s staff.

“We don’t know the details.

I was watching him in the warm-up and he wasn’t striking the ball with his normal ferocious style,” former Tottenham and Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp told Sky Sports.

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“Something isn’t quite right.

If he isn’t playing, Graham Potter will be the happiest man in this stadium.”

Shortly after, it was confirmed that Palmer withdrew from the Chelsea line-up due to an injury — the nature of which remains unclear — with Brazilian winger Estevano Willian replacing him in the side.

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