Chelsea boss Maresca also confirmed Cole Palmer could play the full 90 minutes against Villa as the England international continues to build up his fitness following a lengthy spell on the sidelines with groin and toe injuries.
The 23-year-old made his return as a second-half substitute in the 3-1 defeat at in-form Leeds United on 3 December, before starting the last three league games against Bournemouth, Everton, and Newcastle.
“I think Cole is ready to play 90 minutes, yes,” Maresca added. “He played for an hour against Everton, then he did more than 70 minutes against Newcastle. So I think the progression is there, he’s feeling good and I think he could play for 90 minutes now.
“It will be a very tough game for us and we will have to be at our best because Aston Villa are playing very well. They have a clear way of playing and they are very organised both on and off the ball.
“They are full of confidence in this moment, but we are at home and we will be trying to get the three points as we always do. We will work hard and continue to grow.”
