Noni Madueke was left out of Chelsea’s squad to face Fulham (Image: Getty)
has revealed why Noni Madueke was absent from the squad for their 2-1 defeat to Fulham on Boxing Day.
The winger has been a regular starter under the Italian this season but was conspicuous by his mysterious absence from the 20-man roster at Stamford Bridge.
Maresca even named two goalkeepers on the bench along with teenage talents Josh Acheampong, Tyrique George and .
But there was no sign of Madueke on the Blues bench, leading to speculation as to why he had been dropped from the matchday squad.
And the tactician explained that his omission from the squad was not injury-related, suggesting there may be more to his surprise absence than meets the eye.
According to the Daily Mail, Maresca clarified that Madueke had been left out due to a “technical decision”.
Madueke has been one of the most impressive players in the attack this season behind , Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku, scoring five goals and assisting another three in 16 matches.
However, it is not the first time that the 22-year-old has been dropped this season.
Enzo Maresca revealed Noni Madueke was dropped due to a ‘tactical decision’ (Image: Getty)
He was criticised by his coach for not training at the required level between matches, which saw him left out of the team that beat Aston Villa earlier this season.
Maresca also noted a ‘problem’ with the England international after their UEFA Conference League qualifier against Servette.
It is not yet clear what triggered his surprise axe from the squad on this occasion. But Maresca has carried a no-nonsense approach towards his players this season.
Popular players such as Ben Chilwell and Carney Chukuwuemeka were informed they had no future at the club just weeks after Maresca’s arrival and the 44-year-old has stayed true to his word in keeping the duo away from the first-team squad.
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