Chelsea prepare to host Arsenal on Sunday, and John Terry is excited.
This game is being billed as a measuring stick for Chelsea’s readiness for a title charge.
Enzo Maresca has played down the derby’s title importance, but he’s in the minority.
Many see this home tie against the league leaders as a pivotal moment in the season, which is why news of Cole Palmer’s availability to face Arsenal has been a real morale boost for fans — and probably for the Chelsea dressing room.
Terry certainly sees it that way.
Cole Palmer celebrates scoring his second goal during Chelsea FC v Paris Saint-Germain: Final - FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images
John Terry reacts to Cole Palmer news
Not many were expecting Palmer to be back so soon. Maresca himself seemed to suggest previously that it would be Leeds at the earliest, but Friday’s press conference painted a new picture.
The minor toe fracture the Chelsea star sustained clearly hasn’t hindered his recovery, despite Stan Collymore thinking Palmer could be out until March.
Terry is delighted at the development and what it could mean for Chelsea’s season.
He posted to TikTok: “Cole Palmer is back and it’s a massive boost for the football club to have such a top player back involved, but also more importantly for him to get 20/30 minutes in his legs, ready for the rest of the season.”
Palmer isn’t going to start, according to Terry, and that makes sense. Chelsea need Palmer fit and rushing him back could be detrimental to his recovery.
How much is Cole Palmer worth?
Leave your answer in the comments below! ð¥¶
Cole Palmer celebrates during FC Bayern München v Chelsea FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Chelsea need a strong start against Arsenal
Palmer might be on the bench, but Maresca has plenty of attacking talent to work with.
If the Blues can land the first blow, Arsenal will have to play a more expansive style which is sure to open up gaps for the likes of Estevao or Pedro Neto to exploit.
Finish this sentence: Enzo Maresca should start ______ on the right wing vs Arsenal
Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images
Chelsea have opened the scoring in each of their last seven league outings, and continuing that streak will be pivotal.
The last time Chelsea had a run like this was back in April 2024, a run that was unceremoniously ended by Sunday’s visitors when they beat the Blues 5-0.
Hopefully history won’t be repeating this time around.