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Chelsea delivered a commanding 4-0 win over Premier League bottom club Southampton, with goals from Christopher Nkunku, Pedro Neto, Levi Colwill, and Marc Cucurella sealing a comfortable victory at Stamford Bridge. However, one glaring issue remained—Cole Palmer’s continued struggles in front of goal.

The 22-year-old attacking star once again failed to register a goal or an assist, extending his Premier League drought to six games. His lack of impact has raised concerns among fans, especially given his usually high standards. Despite several chances, Palmer couldn’t find the net, adding to speculation about what’s behind his recent dip in form.

Palmer remains Chelsea’s most influential attacker, boasting 14 goals and six assists across 27 appearances this season. However, his recent struggles have cast a shadow over his otherwise impressive contributions.

Palmer’s Message to Chelsea Fans

Following the match, Palmer took to Instagram to address his lack of goals. He posted a picture of himself in deep thought at full-time, captioning it: “Well done lads +3. Don’t worry I will be back.” His message reassured Chelsea supporters that he remains determined to turn things around.

While Palmer’s form has dipped, he has proven his ability to bounce back. Last season, he was a revelation for Chelsea, recording 22 goals and 11 assists in 33 games. That form saw him break a record set by club legend Eden Hazard, highlighting his immense potential.

Despite concerns, Palmer is keeping a positive mindset, signaling his belief that he will rediscover his scoring touch soon. His confidence and resilience will be crucial as Chelsea push to secure a top-four finish.

Nicolas Jackson’s Absence Affecting Palmer’s Game

Football pundit and Chelsea fan Paul Merson believes that Palmer’s struggles can be linked to the absence of striker Nicolas Jackson. The Senegalese forward, sidelined with a hamstring injury, has missed Chelsea’s last three league matches, forcing Christopher Nkunku into a central role.

Merson explained how Jackson’s movement plays a crucial role in Palmer’s game. “Palmer makes Jackson and Jackson makes Palmer,” he told Sky Sports. “People might say Palmer is an unbelievable player, but you’re only as good as the players around you.”

With Jackson missing, Palmer has lacked the space and opportunities he thrives on. Nkunku, who has replaced Jackson up front, tends to drop deep rather than stretching defenses, making it harder for Palmer to find the openings he typically exploits.

Chelsea will be hoping Jackson’s return can reignite Palmer’s goal-scoring form, but until then, the England international will need to adapt to playing alongside different attacking partners.

Maresca’s Support for Palmer

Despite Palmer’s recent struggles, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has downplayed concerns, urging patience with the young star. Speaking after the win over Southampton, Maresca defended his player, emphasizing that goal droughts are a normal part of football.

“He has to continue to work, continue to be happy, continue to laugh the way he does,” Maresca told the BBC. “It is normal to go through a moment where you struggle to score, but it doesn’t matter. Just continue and you are going to score many goals.”

The Chelsea boss also stressed that no player can maintain top form indefinitely. “You cannot expect Cole Palmer, every season or every game, to be like last season or like the first part of this season. It’s normal,” Maresca added in an interview with TNT Sports.

Palmer’s mentality and work ethic will determine how quickly he can rediscover his best form. With the support of his coach and teammates, Chelsea fans will be hopeful that his next goal is just around the corner.

What’s Next for Palmer and Chelsea?

With Chelsea climbing back into the Premier League’s top four, Palmer will be eager to contribute more as the season progresses.

His goal drought may be frustrating, but his overall quality remains unquestioned.

The return of Nicolas Jackson could play a key role in reviving Palmer’s attacking output, and Maresca’s faith in him suggests he will remain a vital part of the squad.

Chelsea fans will be watching closely, hoping their young star’s promise to “be back” comes true sooner rather than later.