I am still dealing with injury - Palmer admits he is not at his best after ending Chelsea's goal drought

Cole Palmer remains cautious after scoring in Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Everton, insisting he is still recovering from injury despite returning to form.

Cole Palmer insists he is still some way from peak fitness despite ending a three-month goal drought in Chelsea’s 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton at Stamford Bridge.

The 23-year-old England international opened the scoring as the Blues climbed to fourth in the table, delivering a performance that underlined his importance to Enzo Maresca’s side.

What Palmer said

However, Palmer was quick to play down suggestions that he had fully returned to his best after a season disrupted by injury.

“I wouldn’t say I’m at my best yet,” Palmer told BBC Match of the Day.

He added, “I’m still dealing with an injury. Hopefully it gets better and better, but there’s still a bit to go.”

Palmer revealed that managing his workload remains a priority as he continues his rehabilitation.

He explained, “It is getting better. It’s just a matter of not doing too much too soon. Literally, it’s just a day-by-day thing.”

England manager Thomas Tuchel was reportedly in attendance, with Palmer viewed as a key figure in long-term plans towards the 2026 World Cup.

Yet the Chelsea forward insists his focus is firmly on regaining full fitness.

“I’ve not been looking too far ahead, to be honest. I’ve been injured for three months; I just need to get back to full fitness. I know what I can offer when I’m fully fit,” he added.