Liam Rosenior drops fitness update on Cole Palmer and Reece James ahead of Chelsea's semi-final clash vs Arsenal

Chelsea's newly appointed head coach, Liam Rosenior, has revealed that Cole Palmer and Reece James will undergo a late fitness test ahead of their game against Arsenal. He also disclosed that he will take a call on the availability of the duo before the game.

Liam Rosenior drops major update on Cole Palmer and Reece James

Rosenior talked about the fitness of the duo in the press conference ahead of the hot clash. He said (via Football London):

"We've had no injury problems coming out of Charlton. I will make a decision on Cole, Malo, and Reece tomorrow or on the morning of Wednesday."

Palmer and Jones missed the game against Charlton as the Blues picked up a 5-1 in the FA Cup last weekend. However, Rosenior confirmed that they suffered slight niggles before the game against Charlton.

The duo's presence could be a big boost for the Blues, who are set to host their biggest London rival in their first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final. Palmer has amassed four goals in 12 games despite struggling his fitness this season.

Meanwhile, James has recorded eight goal contributions in 25 games across all competitions for the Club World Cup Champions this term. The encounter between the Blues and Arsenal is set to be played on Wednesday, January 14 14, at Stamford Bridge.

Gary Lineker opens up Chelsea's new head coach Liam Rosenior

British expert Gary Lineker has revealed that he is happy with some qualities of Liam Rosenior that he has seen on social media. He went on to claim that Rosenior seems to be a confident head coach.

Speaking on The Rest is Football, Lineker spoke about the Blues' new head coach. He said:

"I’ve been impressed with things I’ve seen on social media, two lengthy interviews he’s given. He’s exuded confidence, the difficult thing will be when they lose games, but he believes in himself. He has a presence which is really important when you go into a club like Chelsea. He doesn’t seem fazed, a cracking start for him."

Liam Rosenior claimed his first win as the new head coach in the 5-1 win over Charlton last weekend. However, he will be up for his first big managerial test when his side takes on Mikel Arteta's Arsenal in the Carabao Cup.