119 days since his last start at Stamford Bridge, Cole Palmer is gearing up to make his return as Chelsea take on Everton in the Premier League.
It’s the moment we’ve been waiting for.
Chelsea having Palmer back in contention is a massive boost for the Christmas period.
Leeds and Bournemouth have frustrated the Blues in recent outings, but adding the Englishman back into the ranks should give Enzo Maresca an answer to stubborn defences like the one we’re sure to see against Everton.
Maresca confirmed Palmer will be available, and his recent Instagram post suggests he’ll be heavily involved.
Cole Palmer is available to start against Everton
Should he be in the first XI, or is it still too soon?
Cole Palmer vs Everton
Palmer’s record against the Toffees looks solid, but he’s only scored against them on one occasion — a four-goal masterclass last season!
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Cole Palmer makes a big statement to Chelsea fans
Chelsea haven’t had their talisman at his brilliant best for quite some time — well before his injury.
In fact, Palmer hasn’t scored at Stamford Bridge for 222 days. He last did so against Champions elect Liverpool back in May.
From reading his message to fans, you can tell just how hungry he is for success after such a long period out of the side.
He took to Instagram to post a story the night before the game, where he said: “Finally back home tomorrow after a long time out. Let’s make things right, together.”
It’s true, Chelsea have struggled in recent games. They are four without a win and will be desperate to buck that trend on Saturday afternoon.
Palmer is doing as any good leader does and trying to motivate himself, his team, and the fans, to show up in support.
Palmer not totally out of the woods with groin issues
As exciting as it is to see Palmer returning to the side, his issues are not fully behind him.
That’s according to Maresca, who told The Athletic: “You can see he’s getting better (and then) some days it can be worse. For instance. After Leeds, he was completely bad the day after and he played half an hour.
“After Bournemouth he was okay and he played one hour. There is not any sense (to it). It’s day by day that decides how he feels.”
As much as the 23-year-old will be an invaluable addition to the side, rushing him back makes no sense at this point.
Cole Palmer’s four-goal display against Everton was just insane! 🔥
Who has utilised Palmer better, Enzo Maresca or Mauricio Pochettino? 🤔
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Palmer won’t be playing 90 minutes, and he won’t be playing three times a week. But if Maresca can pick his battles wisely, he should be able to reintegrate his star attacker in a way that’s safe and keeps him around for the season.
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