Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has explained why talisman Cole Palmer was not registered for the group phase of the Conference League.

The 22-year-old Englishman was dropped from the Blues squad that will feature in UEFA’s third-tier club competition, alongside Ben Chilwell, Romeo Lavia, and Wesley Fofana.

Having finished in 6th place in the Premier League under Mauricio Pochettino last season, the Blues were set to feature in the Europa League. However, Manchester United’s triumph in the FA Cup meant that Chelsea would drop down to the Conference League.

The Blues are set to begin their campaign against Genk on Thursday, October 3, after dispatching Swiss side Servette in the playoffs.

Speaking ahead of the Blues’ clash against Genk, Maresca explained that Cole Palmer was dropped from the Conference League squad because he is an important player who needs to be protected.

“We played some games without Cole, but for us, Cole is something extra that you need. We also need to think a bit to protect some players. They need that. There is a reason behind it, and I think Cole needs to be protected,” he said, as quoted by BeIN Sports1.

Palmer has netted six goals and provided four assists in six Premier League appearances for the Blues this season.

The former Manchester City star netted four times in the first half in Chelsea's 4-2 thrashing of Brighton last weekend.