Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca has confirmed the absence of Noni Madueke from the team. Thursday's 2-1 loss to Fulham it was simply a “technical decision”.
Madueke has been an integral part of Maresca's side so far this season and so his absence was notable, with many questioning whether the winger had picked up an injury in training or had a disciplinary issue.
Earlier this month, Maresca publicly called out Madueke for issues with his work ethic, which were punished with a brief spell on the bench, and things went a step further this time when the winger failed to even make the substitutes' list, with third-choice goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli only featuring for the third time. this season.
“Sometimes we just make a decision and it's nothing more than that,” Maresca said afterward Game. “Is he in contention for Ipswich? Yes, for sure.
“The competition should be higher, but not only for Noni Madueke. Also Renato Veiga was not in the squad and the reason is exactly the same for both. There is no different reason, it's just a technical decision.”
Madueke claimed to be grateful for Maresca's methods after the first public warning and Chelsea the boss insisted he expects a similar reaction this time.
“Very good, fantastic and he responded very well at the time, so there is nothing more than that,” said Maresca. “I expect the same this time, yes, absolutely.”