Cole Palmer suspension? Chelsea excitement at replacement plan: 'I'd love it'

Cole Palmer will likely miss games for Chelsea this season and Jason Cundy would “love to see” Christopher Nkunku played in behind Nicolas Jackson when it happens.

The Frenchman has struggled for consistent playing time under Enzo Marecsa, scoring just two league goals this term. He has featured more frequently in the Conference League but faces stiff competition for places from the likes of Jackson, Joao Felix, and Palmer.

This has made it difficult for him to secure a regular spot in the starting lineup and Mick Brown revealed to Football Insider that the 27-year-old is on Manchester United’s shortlist for January targets.

Former Chelsea player Jason Cundy shared his thoughts on Nkunku’s potential role in the team. Speaking on talkSPORT, the ex-Blue said, “The question is, what does Nkunku look like in Chelsea’s best XI and where should he play? I think he should probably play in behind Jackson.”

He continued, “We haven’t seen that. Why? Because you can’t drop Palmer! I mean that’s a ridiculous conversation. Palmer might get a suspension, might get a knock, might get rested over this busy period.

“I’d love to see what that looks like, that duo.”

Christopher Nkunku may have to leave Chelsea to find more playing time

Football Insider opinion

Chelsea’s squad depth has been both a blessing and a challenge. While the club benefits from competition, players like Nkunku and especially the likes of Carney Chukwuemeka have struggled for consistent opportunities.

Nkunku arrived for a hefty £52 million [BBC Sport], but injuries limited him to just 11 league appearances last season. Despite his setbacks, he impressed in Chelsea’s recent 5-1 victory over Southampton by scoring his second league goal.

Axel Disasi, Noni Madueke, Palmer, and Jadon Sancho added to the tally, propelling Maresca’s side to second place in the table.

Nkunku’s contract runs until 2029, complicating any potential move. Unless Manchester United intensifies their interest, few clubs may match Chelsea’s investment in a player who has struggled for consistency.

Mick Brown noted, “Because he’s not happy, he wants to play regular Premier League football from the start. He’s not content with coming off the bench.” (November 24).

The ex-RB Leipzig forward’s future at Chelsea remains uncertain as he battles for a prominent role in an already-stacked squad.

In other news, Wesley Fofana has posted an injury update message after a crushing Chelsea blow.

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