Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has given reasons why he did not feature Noni Madueke and João Félix during his side’s 2-1 Premier League defeat to Fulham.

Félix was an unused substitute, while Madueke was left out of Chelsea’s squad entirely for the match against Fulham.

Maresca watched as Fulham came from behind to beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Boxing Day.

Cole Palmer gave the hosts the lead in the first half, but two second-half goals from Harry Wilson and Rodrigo Muniz gave the visitors all three points.

Speaking after the game, Maresca said: “Noni Madueke was not even on the bench due to a technical decision. No injury. Selection.”

On Félix, the Italian added: “We decided to sub on Nkunku for Nico. João plays more or less the same position as Cole Palmer. They played together already, but it’s also a matter of balance. That’s why he didn’t come on today.”

EPL: Maresca gives reasons for not playing Felix, Madueke against Fulham