“Probably soon” – Maresca drops hint that struggling Chelsea ace could soon start alongside Palmer | OneFootball

Enzo Maresca has hinted that Joao Felix and Cole Palmer could soon feature in the same Chelsea team, despite both competing for the number ten role.

Maresca has already shown he’s prepared to be bold with team selection after dropping Enzo Fernandez for Romeo Lavia, whilst he also played Reece James as a left back in last weekend’s win against Newcastle.

The 44-year-old has so many different options at his disposal and there are many things he can try in terms of set up and personnel.

Maresca hints Palmer and Felix could play together soon

Chelsea are arguably most stacked in the attacking positions and Maresca seems pretty set on his first choice front four, with Palmer, Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke seemingly guarantees at this point.

Summer signing Felix has had to bide his team and he’s yet to start a Premier League game, although has featured in the cup competitions.

Having to compete with Palmer hasn’t helped Felix’s cause, but speaking ahead of Sunday’s game against Manchester United Maresca hinted the duo could feature in the same team soon.

Joao Felix rues a missed chance. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

“This [lack of physicality in midfield] doesn’t mean that we can’t play with Joao [Felix] and Cole [Palmer] in the pocket, it depends on the game,” he told his pre-match press conference.

“Probably soon, we are going to see Joao and Cole playing together in the pocket. It’s always the game that requires a little bit different plan.”

Felix has yet to deliver since returning to Stamford Bridge this summer and former Blue Jason Cundy believes he’s flattered to deceive this season.

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The Portugal international clearly has plenty of ability, and Pat Nevin has backed him to be a success in west London, but he needs to start to delivering and making an impact on a more consistent basis when given the opportunity.

The 24-year-old started in midweek against Newcastle, but didn’t have the best game, and will almost certainly find himself back on the bench for Sunday’s game against Manchester United at Old Trafford.