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Maresca: Chelsea will seek 'internal solution' before buying defender, Jackson can leave

Maresca discussed Fofana's online antics, Jackson's future and signing a new defender ahead of the match against West Ham
Maresca discussed Fofana's online antics, Jackson's future and signing a new defender ahead of the match against West HamADIL BENAYACHE / Sipa Press / Profimedia
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has spoken to the press ahead of Friday's Premier League clash with West Ham.

The Hammers began their season with a 3-0 thrashing at the Stadium of Light away to Sunderland, whilst the Blues failed to score in their 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace.

Both teams will be looking for a better result this week as Maresca was first asked on Wesley Fofana’s social media activity after he deleted all association with Chelsea. 

Fofana's social media activity

“I spoke with Wes every day and he is very happy. He is joining all the sessions with us. He is very happy. He was on the bench against Palace but from tomorrow he can get some minutes. We are happy and he is happy. Unfortunately, I do not have any idea (about his Instagram activity). 

“Wes is happy. We are happy. There is nothing to add on that. Abuse, as you said, is never good. Not good for Wes, or any player, any human being in the world but it is something we can't control.” 

Jackson will not feature 

The Italian tactician was also asked about striker Nicolas Jackson, who has been linked with a move away, and confirmed that he will not feature for the side. 

“He is available but he is not going to be part of the squad. We have two strikers, two in that position and also something can happen before the transfer window closes.” 

West Ham's defence will be tough

Maresca then commented on his opponents and admits that he expects a tough game against a very strong West Ham defence. 

“Tough game. All the Premier League games are difficult. If you remember the game at home last season was a different game for us. They defended very well - I expect exactly the same.” 

Will Pedro and Delap start together?

Can Joao Pedro and Liam Delap play together? Maresca confirmed that the pair have versatility and can start together up top if needed. 

“Joao, with us, can play in the five positions up front; winger, behind the striker - as a number nine or behind the striker is his best position. He can play in all the attacking positions for us.” 

Injury news

Maresca also gave some brief injury news, confirming that Fofana will return but after his antics he is unlikely to start the game as he continues to send a message to the side.

"Romeo (Lavia) is still out. Benoit (Badiashile) is still out. Wes (Fofana) is back and that's all."

New defender on the horizon?

Finally, Maresca revealed that the club are on the lookout for a new defender but will be searching internally instead of dipping into the transfer market. 

“I already said we are looking for internal solutions. We will see what happens. We are trying to find a solution. I repeat again: We are looking for internal solutions and we will see if something happens.”

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