Return from Injury and Impact in Naples
Liam Rosenior says Cole Palmer’s performance in Chelsea’s victory over Napoli was magnificent and is hopeful the Blues will soon “see the best” of the England international after his return from injury.
The 23-year-old has had a stop-start campaign, missing two-and-a-half months earlier due to groin and foot injuries. He was also kept out of recent wins over Pafos and Crystal Palace because of a small thigh issue.
But Palmer returned to the squad for the crucial Champions League clash with Napoli and was introduced at half-time with Chelsea trailing.
Second-Half Fight and Assists for Victory
The Blues produced a second-half fight at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, with Palmer claiming the assists for both Joao Pedro goals that sealed a 3-2 victory and guaranteed progression to the Champions League Round of 16.
Rosenior reflected after the win in Naples: “There was no way Cole could have started this game and played 60, 70 or 80 minutes. Napoli have had a difficult time with injuries, so I felt that later in the game we would be stronger, and I felt Cole’s performance was magnificent. Not just his quality, but his pressing and his running for the team.
“He’s had so many games over a long period of time in the last two seasons, so we need to look after him, and I think the way that he’s managed himself for the last two weeks has been magnificent. Hopefully, we can now see the best of him now that he’s fully fit.”
Palmer’s return strengthens Chelsea’s attacking options significantly as they aim to maintain momentum in both the Premier League and Champions League. The head coach’s comments underline the importance of managing the playmaker carefully to unlock his full potential in the second half of the season.
