Cole Palmer made his first start since returning from injury in Chelsea’s 0-0 draw with Bournemouth on Saturday.
Unfortunately, even with a player of his quality on the pitch, Chelsea were still unable to penetrate Bournemouth’s defence.
Andoni Iraola was concerned about Chelsea and the threat that they posed on the counter-attack. In the end, though, he did not have too much to worry about, as the Blues struggled to create opportunities.
Who has disappointed you most from Chelsea’s scoreless draw with Bournemouth? 😶
Palmer might get a pass after two months out of the lineup.
However, Enzo Maresca was pleased with Palmer’s contribution in the final third.
- READ MORE: Chelsea player ratings vs Bournemouth as Cole Palmer presents Enzo Maresca with a new issue
Enzo Maresca thought Cole Palmer was good in final third
After the game, Maresca was asked about Chelsea’s lack of quality in attack and whether it was down to individuals lacking confidence or not taking responsibility.
According to Maresca, it was neither, with the Italian actually quite happy with what Palmer produced in the final third of the pitch.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, which has been shared by Chelsea’s official club website, Maresca said: “No, no, no, not because of this. I think it’s a normal mistake that can happen, you know, a last pass in the last third. It’s just that.
“I think Cole was quite good on that, he played half an hour the other day, played one hour today. So now it’s important that he can build his physical condition.”
Palmer’s teammate Alejandro Garnacho did come close to scoring, but he only managed to hit the post with his attempt.
Cole Palmer’s passing at the Vitality Stadium was not accurate
You cannot tear into Palmer’s performance against Bournemouth. He only recently returned from injury.
That being said, you would have to disagree with Maresca’s assessment of the attacking midfielder. There were times in the game, for example, where his pass could not find Pedro Neto or did not have the right weight.
Did Cole Palmer look a bit rusty?
| Cole Palmer’s stats vs Bournemouth | Total |
| Minutes | 58 |
| xG | 0.08 |
| Key passes | 1 |
| Accurate passes | 26/38 (68%) |
| Crosses (accurate) | 1 (0) |
| Total shots | 1 |
| Touches | 49 |
| Dribbles (successful) | 3 (2) |
According to Sofascore, Palmer only completed 18 out of the 29 passes that he attempted in the opposition’s half, giving him a passing accuracy of just 62%.
After being out for quite a while, it is to be expected. With the talent and quality he has, it will probably not be too long until Chelsea supporters get to see Palmer at his best again.
Hopefully Joao Pedro can also up his game, especially with Liam Delap picking up another injury. All of a sudden, centre-forward appears to be an issue for Chelsea again.
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