Cole Palmer secured a 1-0 victory for Chelsea against west London rivals Fulham, helping the Blues bounce back from their recent League Cup loss to Middlesbrough.
Palmer converted a penalty late in the first half at Stamford Bridge, providing a much-needed win for Chelsea after their unexpected 1-0 defeat in the League Cup semi-final first leg.
Despite their struggles, Chelsea secured their third successive Premier League victory against Fulham. Mauricio Pochettino's side, still in a period of transition in his first season as manager, will take positives from their ability to grind out results even when not playing at their best.
Following a 10-day winter break, Chelsea will have the opportunity to overturn their League Cup deficit when they face Middlesbrough in the second leg on January 23.
Pochettino continues to navigate the challenges of building a cohesive and competitive team in his debut season at the helm of Chelsea.
In a bid to lift the gloom following their League Cup loss, Chelsea faced Fulham, a team they haven't lost to at Stamford Bridge since 1979.
Despite recent struggles, Chelsea managed to secure a 1-0 victory against Fulham, with Cole Palmer converting a penalty late in the first half.
Chelsea's recent difficulties had allowed Fulham to hope for an upset, but the Blues held on for their third consecutive Premier League victory.
The match was marked by frustration among Chelsea fans as their team struggled to find rhythm, but Palmer's nerveless penalty provided a crucial lead.
The absence of key players like Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku tested Mauricio Pochettino's attacking options, and Chelsea's struggles were evident in their play.
However, Palmer's fifth successful penalty for Chelsea showcased his composure, earning him the nickname 'Cold Palmer.'
Despite moments of lethargy from Chelsea, they managed to withstand Fulham's efforts, securing a much-needed win.
Raul Jimenez and Conor Gallagher threatened, but Chelsea held on, and Ben Chilwell's return in the closing minutes added a positive note for the team.
The victory allows Chelsea to build momentum as they navigate a challenging season under Pochettino's management.
(With AFP inputs)
