Palmer missed the 3-2 loss to Arsenal in the English League Cup semifinals and his fitness will be monitored ahead of Chelsea’s next game – at home to Brentford in the Premier League on Saturday. “The game came too early for him, hopefully he’ll be available to train on Friday and be ready for us to play on Saturday,” Rosenior said of Palmer.

“He had a little, minor strain in his thigh. If you play a player too early, in January, with a minor strain, it can turn into six weeks.

I can’t afford to lose Cole Palmer for six weeks because he’s that good.”

Palmer, who starred for Chelsea in its title-winning campaign at the Club World Cup over the summer, has had spells out this season with a nagging groin injury and a broken toe.

The playmaker is looking to regain full match sharpness to get back in the England squad ahead of the World Cup starting in June.

Palmer’s latest setback is a stark reminder of how fragile a campaign can become for a young star constantly juggling club and international ambitions.

After a summer that saw him shine in Chelsea’s Club World Cup triumph, the 21-year-old has endured a frustrating series of interruptions, from a persistent groin issue to a broken toe, which have repeatedly stalled his momentum.

Rosenior’s cautious approach underscores the importance of protecting Palmer from aggravating the thigh strain, especially in the congested January schedule, where one rushed appearance could extend into weeks on the sidelines.

With Chelsea navigating a pivotal stage in the Premier League and eyeing a deep cup run, Palmer’s fitness is not just vital for the team but also for his aspirations to reclaim a place in the England squad ahead of the World Cup in June.