Liam Rosenior: Cole Palmer ready but Jamie Gittens out for Chelsea vs Wolves

The coach confirming Cole Palmer is ready to start while revealing Jamie Gittens faces a long spell out with a hamstring injury.

Speaking before the weekend fixture, Rosenior's biggest concern centred on Gittens, who was forced off during the first half of last weekend's match against West Ham.

The Chelsea manager confirmed the extent of the problem, saying: "Jamie is a more long-term injury. He's got a tear in his hamstring which is a real shame for him." The setback leaves Chelsea short of attacking options at a crucial stage of the season.

With Gittens sidelined, attention quickly turned to Palmer and Estevao, who both appeared as second-half substitutes in the recent clash against Arsenal. Asked whether the pair were ready to play a full 90 minutes at Wolves, Rosenior gave a direct response: "Yes."

The manager added more context around Palmer's situation and the club's careful approach to player fitness. "What we're doing not just with Cole, but all of the players, is doing the right tests. We are making sure these players can play at the level they need to be.

"He's been magnificent, he wants to play every minute of every game, but he's also maturing as a human being and understands the bigger picture," he explained.

Rosenior also provided updates on Reece James and Pedro Neto, who both missed the recent Carabao Cup second leg against Arsenal after failing late fitness tests due to pain. "We don't know yet (if they'll be fit). They have training today. It's a recovery day for the lads who played. We'll check tomorrow," he said, leaving the door open for their potential return.

Chelsea will hope to welcome key players back as they chase an important result at Wolves, especially with squad depth already tested by Gittens' injury and the ongoing management of player fitness.