By Amofokhai Williams
Chelsea star Cole Palmer has revealed he is still not operating at full capacity as he continues to manage a lingering groin injury, despite marking his return to the starting lineup with a goal in Saturday’s 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton at Stamford Bridge.
Speaking to BBC’s Match of the Day after the match, the 23-year-old England international downplayed his impactful performance, which included his first goal in three months.
“I wouldn’t say I’m at my best yet. I’m still dealing with an injury,” Palmer said.
“Hopefully it gets better and better but there’s still a bit to go. It is getting better. The stuff I’ve been doing with the physios at the club. It’s just a matter of not doing too much too soon. Literally, it’s just a day-by-day thing,” he added.
Palmer’s strike helped secure a vital three points for Enzo Maresca’s side, lifting Chelsea to fourth in the table and ending a brief winless streak.
The goal came from a well-taken finish assisted by Malo Gusto, showcasing flashes of the creativity that made Palmer one of the league’s standout performers last season.
However, his candid admission underscores the cautious approach Chelsea are taking with their talismanic playmaker.
Palmer has been sidelined for much of the campaign, missing over two months initially due to a groin issue picked up in September against Manchester United.
His comeback was further delayed by a fractured toe sustained in a freak accident at home.
Head coach Enzo Maresca has repeatedly stressed the need for patience, confirming earlier this week that Palmer is still experiencing groin pain and cannot yet handle a full schedule of matches.
“Cole can’t start every game at this stage,” Maresca said ahead of the Everton fixture.
The Italian rested Palmer entirely for Tuesday’s Champions League defeat to Atalanta, prioritizing his long-term fitness amid a congested December fixture list.
Maresca has indicated no surgery is required, describing the issue as manageable day-by-day, but Palmer has joined the likes of Reece James and Wesley Fofana in the category of players whose minutes must be carefully monitored.
Palmer’s absence has been keenly felt, with the Blues relying on emerging talents like Estevao Willian to fill the creative void.
His partial return has coincided with mixed results, but Saturday’s win, coupled with his goal, offers optimism as Chelsea navigate domestic and European commitments.
