'We rely on Cole for everything' - Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca admits struggling Blues are over-dependent on Palmer amid talisman's untimely dip in form

Palmer has played the role of saviour for Chelsea over the last season-and-a-half since his move to Stamford Bridge from Manchester City. The England international was one of few positives last season for Mauricio Pochettino's side and while his impact has not been as major under Maresca, Palmer has still been a key player and the Italian coach has agreed that the Blues are too dependent on him amid his recent struggles.

Speaking to the media, Maresca replied when asked about Palmer's drop off: "No, I'm not concerned. I'm always concerned about general performances, but I'm not concerned about Cole because Cole is a human being and during the season, he can have some moments where he struggles a little bit more. The problem is with Cole, we rely on Cole for everything and I've said from the start, we need to rely on the team. For sure, we need big players, top players like Cole, but we are not worried about Cole at all."

When asked how he plans to bring Palmer back into form as Chelsea look to arrest their slide down the Premier League table after beginning the winter in a title battle with Liverpool, Maresca added: "Just continue working in the way he is working. The other day, I think yes, he had a great chance but overall, the performance from Cole - as I said, every game we expect from him a goal or an assist, so it is difficult. He is a human being and player. In this moment, his performance also reflects the team's performance that we struggle to score goals and we need to be a little bit more clinical when we get the chances."

Chelsea are up against Southampton next when they face off at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday and Palmer will be a definite starter as the Blues look to pick up a much-needed three point.