Speaking after the game, Maresca provided further detail on why Palmer was not available at the Emirates, and explained what the next steps are.

‘His injury was from yesterday’s session, it’s a muscular problem,’ revealed Enzo.

‘He needs a scan, and it is planned for tomorrow [Monday] morning. I hope he can be back for our next game, but we need to wait for a scan.

‘We don’t wish players injury, but probably in Cole’s case in this moment it will give him some rest, physically and mentally, it could be good.’

Maresca also confirmed Noni Madueke and Nicolas Jackson are progressing well in their recovery from injury and should be available after the international break.