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Chelsea have been handed a boost before their Premier League clash with Manchester United, as Cole Palmer is expected to be available despite the red card he received against Tottenham Hotspur.
As reported by Football London on Saturday 24 October 2026, Palmer will serve his one-match ban in Chelsea's forthcoming Carabao Cup match against Liverpool, which means he can return for the Premier League game with Manchester United.
The England international was shown a red card in Chelsea's 2-0 loss to Tottenham at Stamford Bridge after picking up two yellow cards within 10 minutes.
Palmer was booked for the first time in the 71st minute, then received his second yellow nine minutes later after another reckless challenge.
His sending-off sparked worries among Chelsea fans, who feared the attacking midfielder would be absent for their key league match against Manchester United.
The suspension rules, however, mean Chelsea can keep their influential player available for the Premier League fixture.
Since Palmer was sent off for two yellow cards rather than a straight red, he faces the standard one-match suspension.
The ban covers domestic competitions, so he is able to serve it during Chelsea's Carabao Cup fourth-round tie with Liverpool.
Consequently, the 24-year-old is expected to be available when Xabi Alonso's side host Manchester United at Stamford Bridge next weekend.
Palmer's availability will matter to Chelsea as they aim to bounce back from their disappointing loss to Tottenham and get back to winning ways.
The midfielder remains a key attacking player for the Blues, and his return would give Alonso another option as the team prepares for yet another demanding Premier League fixture.