Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has addressed the media ahead of this week’s clash with Leeds United.

The Blues stretched their unbeaten run to seven matches in all competitions with a draw against Arsenal, keeping pace with their London rivals in the title race. Maresca, however, is still searching for his first competitive win over Leeds and will be aiming to leave Elland Road with a crucial three points.

James to replace Caicedo?

Chelsea will be without Moisés Caicedo, who was sent off against Arsenal following a reckless challenge on Mikel Merino. Asked how he plans to cover the Ecuadorian’s absence, Maresca admitted he will need to get creative.

“For sure, again, we are a better team with Cole (Palmer), with Moi (Caicedo), with Levi (Colwill), but when these players are not available, we need to find solutions. Now we need to do something different.

“Andrey (Santos) is ready. His position is playing as a No. 6, like Moi, but he is ready. One that can play good in that position is Josh (Acheampong), but we will see.”

Reece James could also be an option in midfield. The England international has impressed both at full-back and in central areas this season, but Maresca stressed that his minutes need to be carefully managed during a congested run of fixtures.

“It’s complicated. I would like to start him every game, but we need to see.

“He can play in both positions. He has been a full-back his whole life. He has also played as a midfielder. He can be good in both positions. When we decide for him as a midfielder, we want physicality in the middle. It depends on the game plan, but as you said, he is doing very well in both positions.”

Palmer returns

Leeds’ last victory over Chelsea came at Elland Road in 2022, a 3–0 win over Thomas Tuchel’s side. Maresca will approach this fixture with caution, not only tactically but also with regard to the fitness of returning star Cole Palmer, who could feature more heavily after a spell on the sidelines.

“He is available. He was on the bench last game. With 10 players, it was more complicated for Cole because he needs to come back in terms of fitness condition. The idea is to give him some minutes until he can play 90 minutes.”

Maresca also offered a wider squad update:

“Everyone is fine. Romeo (Lavia) is still recovering. Dario (Essugo), he was okay and started some sessions with us. He now needs to slow down a little bit. He will be out again, hopefully nothing important.”