Back in Action, But Not in a Hurry: Palmer's Chelsea Return Lights Up the Blues

Chelsea's Palmer Returns with a Measured Confidence

Cole Palmer urged Chelsea fans to understand the club's circumstances after a brief dip in form, saying the schedule is tougher than many imagine following their 2-0 win over Everton on Saturday.

The 24-year-old opened the scoring on his first Chelsea start at Stamford Bridge in four months, returning from an adductor injury, and it marked just his third league goal of the season.

This victory was Chelsea's first in five matches, breaking a run of poor results that included two away losses at Leeds and Atalanta, plus a dull goalless draw with Bournemouth.

A Manager's Struggle and Palmer's Defense

After the game, manager Enzo Maresca stunned observers by saying he had not received certain support from some quarters, noting the last 48 hours were the hardest since he took charge of Chelsea.

Yet with Chelsea back in the winning column, Palmer defended his teammates and coach, insisting that many people do not grasp the demands placed on the squad.

"I had been out for a while, perhaps the longest spell of my career, so I was really excited to return and play again for the team. To start and score was a wonderful feeling," Palmer told the Daily Mail, echoing the sentiment of many players.

"Obviously we've had a few hard matches, and it's tougher than people think. Playing every three days is not easy. There is a lot of travel, which makes it hard, so securing the win is wonderful."

Palmer had started for the first time since September 20 in last week's draw with Bournemouth, playing about an hour; starting against Everton gave the team and supporters a clear lift, evident when he scored the lead after 21 minutes.

Maresca had earlier indicated a plan to manage Palmer's minutes carefully, with a gradual return to full match readiness after the recurring adductor issue.

Palmer added, "I didn't want to rush back and risk another injury, and I'm still taking it day by day."

"I've enjoyed being back on the pitch, and I'm not yet at 100% in fitness and sharpness, but I'm improving and getting closer. I hope to be at my best soon. I don't want to push too hard too early, but I'm on the right track."

Punchline 1: If patience were a stat, Chelsea would be at the top of the table—finally adding a little pace without sprinting into the transfer window.

Punchline 2: Palmer's back, the schedule remains: three days, one recovery, and a stadium full of fans praying his hammy stays on vacation.