Cole Palmer announced his return from injury in style with a classy goal and performance for Chelsea in their 2-0 win over Everton.
Palmer missed the best part of three months of action due to his recent groin injury, however has now started the last two Premier League games.
He didn’t make the trip to Italy, and Chelsea suffered without his creativity as they fell to defeat against Atalanta.
Cole Palmer is back!
Three months, 91 days, 2184 hours since Cole Palmer last scored, how good is that to see, Blues fans?
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As the Blues struggled to find their rhythm again against an impressive Everton side, it was a welcome feeling for the home fans to see Palmer produce a bit of magic to give them the lead.
Chelsea v Everton - Premier League
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John Terry compares Cole Palmer to Wayne Rooney after Chelsea 2-0 Everton
Latching onto a brilliant Malo Gusto pass, the England international skipped past the defenders and drilled a shot past Jordan Pickford.
John Terry was one of those who was thrilled to see Palmer return to the scoresheet, and watching him play gave him flashbacks of a battle he used to have when he was playing at Stamford Bridge.
Who was your Man of the Match against Everton?
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He drew comparisons between the current Chelsea man and Wayne Rooney, praising both for being able to influence the game in the number 10 position.
He said on his TikTok: “Delighted to have Cole Palmer back in the starting line-up. Playing in that number 10 role, I’m not sure there’s anyone better in world football playing in that role, or if there is he certainly gives everyone a run for their money.
“He’s just so brave, constantly on the half turn, looking to get in those little pockets. A defender’s absolute nightmare when you get a player like that. You’re always in doubt.
“Rooney used to do it as well. Do you go with him, do you drop off? When we have Pedro and the wide men looking to run behind, you’re always questioning yourself as a defender.”
Wayne Rooney playing for Man United against Chelsea
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Maresca must still protect Palmer despite goal vs Everton
Enzo Maresca has admitted that Palmer is still feeling pain, and this explains his early substitution in the second half against Everton.
It is going to be a tricky path to navigate the return of the England international, with it difficult to not keep him on the pitch in times Chelsea need a goal.
However, Maresca knows that managing Reece James’ minutes has helped him become a regular in the side again, and should use the same method with Palmer.
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