Pat Nevin believes this Liam RosenioHis decision to continue with the game Cole Palmer out on the wing ‘doesn’t fit’ Chelsea midfielder.
Palmer was an instant success in his first two seasons at Stamford Bridge following his £40m move from Manchester City in the year 2023.
But the Englishman has found form and goals more difficult to come by this season, partly due to persistent and nagging injuries that have hampered him for large parts of the season.
And while Palmer has scored six goals in his 13 appearances in all competitions since Rosenior’s arrival, the 23-year-old has still been far from his devastating best.
The current Chelsea manager has consistently used Palmer on the right wing, preferring to use him Enzo Fernandez in the central role no. 10.
But former Blues winger Nevin has urged the Chelsea manager to change his ways and put Palmer more centrally, especially after a fourth straight defeat increased the pressure on Rosenior ahead of this international break.
“A dip in form can happen,” Nevin said Betarades.gr when asked about Palmer’s form.
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“We always have to remember to ask the question why is it happening. Is it because Palmer is playing for a struggling team?
“He’s also now playing wider rather than in that number ten position. Is that good for his creativity? If you ask me, I’d play him in the middle 100 out of 100 times.
“He is now playing in a position that doesn’t really suit him. He is playing for a team that often faces opponents, especially at home, who sit very deep. That makes it difficult.
“There are many reasons why he hasn’t had such a good season.”
Reports in recent months have linked Palmer with a move away from Chelsea in the summer, citing the 23-year-old’s desire to return north and play for Manchester United.
But Nevin believes cashing in on Palmer so early in his Chelsea career would be a grave mistake by his former club.
“He was too cheap to buy from Manchester City and if he sold him I would be disappointed. As a Chelsea player I would be disappointed. Completely and utterly gutted.
“He’s a joy to watch even when he’s just average at best, not to mention when he’s great.”
“I think the team has to adapt to suit him as opposed to him leaving, but if he left, it would be at least double the money you paid for him, and then you can reinvest.
“We still have to remember that Chelsea’s model is about that. It’s all about investment.
Of all the players, Palmer and Estevao they are the ones who can bring a lot of money. But I like them because I like to have fun.’
Chelsea return from the international break with an FA Cup quarter-final clash against League One keepers Port Vale.
The Blues then face two tough league games against City and United as they look to salvage their hopes of Champions League qualification.
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