Throughout the season, it has felt like not everything is right with Cole Palmer. In fact, one could go back to the second half of the previous campaign for that matter. After starting brilliantly under Enzo Maresca, the Englishman lost steam midway through. And we have never really seen him at his best for Chelsea on a consistent basis since then.
Of course, there have been glimpses. He was phenomenal in the Club World Cup final against PSG, blowing away the best team in Europe with a brilliant display, scoring a brace and providing an assist in Chelsea’s 3-0 win. Against Bayern Munich earlier in the campaign, Palmer was a bright spark again, scoring a beautiful goal and having a second ruled out by VAR.
Overall, though, he has been far from consistent. And at times, it has felt like he is not playing at 100 per cent. He did not look as sharp in front of goal and almost seemed to second-guess himself when taking on defenders.
As it turns out, that might have been the case after all. Fortunately, Palmer has suggested that he has turned a corner and is now back to fitness. Chelsea fans will be hoping that it comes with an upturn in form.
Cole Palmer shares positive message after win against Port Vale
Palmer was given the captain’s armband against Port Vale in the absence of Reece James and Enzo Fernandez. It has certainly felt like a long time coming for someone who has been the face of this team for a while.
After the match, Palmer had a positive message regarding his fitness status as well. And it is one that will leave the fans excited about what is to come. He said:
“I feel good, feel like I’ve turned a corner, I can finally shoot again and do everything now, so just about kicking on and performing.”
Palmer needs to step up as Chelsea eye Champions League spots
That would explain Palmer’s struggles this season. He has been dealing with a groin injury for some time now. And while it has not always stopped him from playing. It has felt like the issue has prevented the Englishman from showcasing what he is capable of when at the top of his game.
Chelsea fans will be hoping that the issue is now behind Palmer, once and for all. He has already spent a couple of spells out on the sidelines due to it.
If Chelsea want to finish this season strong and secure Champions League qualification, they will need Palmer to be at his very best. He has a great chance to prove a point in the next game, as the Blues will take on his former side, Manchester City, in an important Premier League fixture.
