Maresca decided to keep Palmer on the bench for Wednesday's loss against Leeds United before he came on in the second half as he held the midfielder back from fully returning to the pitch as to not risk further injury.
A groin issue has sidelined Palmer since Chelsea's 2-1 defeat at old Trafford on September 20th before he suffered a fractured toe in an accident at home further delayed his return to the side.
However, although Palmer is not ready to return to play a full 90 minutes just yet, Maresca says he will be ready for the weekend clash against Bournemouth.
“Probably it’s the only good news of the night. I’m happy for him, he’s back, now he needs to build a little bit the physical condition and he will be important for us, for sure.
“He’s getting better, but he needs to play minutes. Last night he had more-or-less half-an-hour, hopefully we can give him more in the next game.”
Palmer's return will put Chelsea's midfield on another level
Former Chelsea star Joe Cole also commented on Palmer’s return and how when he is reintroduced into the side, the Blues will have one of the best midfields on the planet.
“He can elevate them, and his return will give the lads a boost. What I will say is that the players who stepped up in his absence have been superb. They have spread the goals around the team, and the performances have been great.
“If you played against Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo and Cole Palmer in the 10 role, it’s as good as anything in world football.”