Chelsea

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Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca says the omission of Noni Madueke from the matchday squad on Boxing Day does not mean the England winger is out of contention for the trip to Ipswich on Monday.

The 22-year-old has come of age this season, scoring six times and providing four assists as well as making his England debut.

However, he has also been left out of the squad on more than one occasion, with his absence against Fulham on Thursday prompting more questions.

"Sometimes we just take a decision and it's no more than that," Maresca explained. "Is he in contention for Ipswich? Yeah, for sure.

The competition has to be higher, but not only for Noni Madueke. Also Renato Veiga was not in the squad and the reason is exactly the same for both of them.

"There is not any different reason - it's just a technical decision."

Earlier this season, Madueke was dropped for the trip to Aston Villa but returned to the starting XI three days later at Southampton and scored in a 5-1 win.

"Very good, fantastic and he responded very good at that time so there is no more than that," added Maresca. "I expect the same this time, yeah, absolutely."

Defeat by Fulham was an unexpected black mark on a positive first half of the season at Stamford Bridge.

Maresca said the Blues' first league loss in over two months left a "bad feeling," and he reiterated the importance of Chelsea bouncing back with victory at Portman Road.

Full commentary of Ipswich v Chelsea from 19:45 GMT on Monday on BBC Radio 5 Live

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We asked for your thoughts after Thursday's Premier League game between Chelsea and Fulham.

Here are some of your comments:

Chelsea fans

David: At the beginning of the season, we would have taken second spot at Christmas without blinking. No need to panic - we have plenty more to come. Not ready for the title but we will be a solid top-four team this year. Fulham played well and probably deserved it.

Hashir: A really disappointing game. Enzo Maresca should've made changes during the second half when Fulham were going for attack after attack. One point out of a possible six against weaker teams only puts us under more pressure in challenging for the top four. Hopefully we can forget those results and move on to the next one.

Fossie: The only bright spot was Cole Palmer's goal. In the second half, Fulham dominated the game. The blame has to lie at the manager's door for this loss. There was plenty of talent on the bench, but only one change occurred. Unfortunately, it is also the case that the goalkeeper is just not up to standard. A miserable afternoon for Chelsea ers.

Luke: This should not be brushed off. There are ways to lose a football match - this horror show was not one of those ways. I need to see a response from Maresca.

Fulham fans

Bill: A quite magnificent performance. Never gave up, a top-class game from everyone and don't forget Bernd Leno's saves! After 45 years, about time!

Will: Wow, just wow. Another late goal in a London derby. Level on points with Manchester City and all memory of the last game has faded. Only one team in Fulham.

Mario: It's a great feeling when the team you have ed for all your life beats the team from down the road. Our never-say-die attitude showed everyone that we cannot be counted out. Happy Christmas to all at Fulham and all our ers.

Bob: Absolutely brilliant team effort. Subs did the business again with the full of the rest of the team. Definitely looking up again this season. We have the bragging rights this time. Well done, lads!

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Alan Shearer told Match of the Day that Chelsea are still ahead of where they thought they would be under Enzo Maresca despite a disappointing Boxing Day defeat by Fulham: "When you look at where they are now, there is no doubt they would have taken it [at the start of the season].

"I still think they will finish in the top four which will be a brilliant achievement for them and I think they will win the Conference League also.

"They will [still] be really happy with the things that are happening at Stamford Bridge."

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