Enzo Maresca offers an open explanation for Noni Madueke’s absence in Chelsea’s defeat by Fulham

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Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed Noni Madueke’s absence from the squad for Defeated Fulham 2-1 on Thursday was simply a “technical decision”.

Madueke has been an integral part of Maresca’s squad so far this season so his absence has been noticeable, with many wondering if the winger was injured in training or if there was a disciplinary issue.

Earlier this month, Maresca publicly called out Madueke due to issues with his work ethic that were punished by a brief stint on the bench, and things went a step further this time when the winger failed to even make the substitutes list which included third keeper Marcus Bettinelli for only the third time this season.

“Sometimes we just make a decision and it’s nothing more than that,” Maresca said afterwards game. “Is he in contention for Ipswich? Yes, for sure.

“The competition has to be bigger, but not only for Noni Madueke. Also Renato Veiga was not in the team, and the reason is exactly the same for both of them. There is no different reason, it’s just a technical decision.”

Madueke claimed to appreciate Maresca’s methods after the first public warning and Chelsea The boss insisted that he expects a similar reaction this time as well.

“Very good, fantastic and he responded very well then, so there’s nothing more than that,” Maresca said. “I expect the same this time, yes, absolutely.”