Chelsea vs Everton: Maresca hails Palmer as Blues return to winning ways

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca praised Cole Palmer after the forward marked his return to the starting line-up with a goal in a 2-0 Premier League win over Everton at Stamford Bridge.

The victory saw Chelsea move back into the top four, and Maresca was clear about the impact Palmer has on his team. Speaking after the match, he said Chelsea are a stronger side whenever the England international is available.

“We said many times with Cole Palmer we are a better team,” Maresca said. “Unfortunately he was out for many games, but now he’s back and for sure he will help us.”

Palmer was making his first home start in almost four months after a difficult spell out injured. The 23-year-old had been sidelined by a groin problem and later suffered a fractured toe after an accident at home. He returned to the starting XI last weekend in a goalless draw with Bournemouth before missing Chelsea’s midweek Champions League defeat to Atalanta as part of his recovery.

Against Everton, Palmer made his presence felt quickly. In the 21st minute, Malo Gusto picked him out with a smart pass, and Palmer finished confidently at Jordan Pickford’s near post to give Chelsea the lead.

Everton enjoyed plenty of possession and created chances, forcing Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez into a strong save from Jack Grealish. However, despite their pressure, the visitors could not find a way through.

Chelsea doubled their advantage just before half-time, scoring against the run of play. A quick counter-attack ended with Pedro Neto cutting the ball back for Gusto, who finished from close range to make it 2-0.

Everton had opportunities to get back into the match. Jack Grealish missed a clear chance at the back post, while Iliman Ndiaye later struck the inside of the post. Chelsea also threatened to add a third goal, with Pickford doing well to tip over a quick free-kick from Reece James.

Maresca was pleased with both the result and the defensive display. “The game is never finished,” he said. “We had many chances and missed some, but overall I’m happy with the clean sheet and the performance.”

The win gives Chelsea renewed momentum, while Everton remain eighth in the table despite the defeat.