Benfica head coach Jose Mourinho has branded Chelsea forward Cole Palmer a “phenomenal player” as he prepares for a Champions League reunion at Stamford Bridge.

Mourinho, who won three Premier League titles during two trophy-laden spells in charge of Chelsea, will lead Benfica to West London on matchday two of the Champions League.

Palmer, however, will not feature due to a lingering groin injury picked up during the Club World Cup.

Despite the England international’s absence, Mourinho insisted Chelsea remain formidable opponents.

“I’m happy with that, he’s a phenomenal player. But I think they have a good team, in a way that if Cole Palmer doesn’t play it’s not a problem for them.

If (Heorhiy) Sudakov doesn’t play or if (Vangelis) Pavlidis doesn’t play, I am in big trouble. But for Chelsea, no problem,” Mourinho told Mail Sport.

Palmer has become a talismanic figure for Chelsea since his move from Manchester City, starring in their Club World Cup triumph and continuing his fine form in the Premier League.