Nkunku’s injury in early August saw Chelsea shorn of their would-be creator-in-chief before a ball had even been kicked this season, and they evidently set about searching for a replacement behind the scenes. Although Nkunku hadn’t played a competitive game for the Blues, it was seen as an impossible task to mitigate for the goals and assists he would have provided, given his return of 126 contributions in 172 appearances for RB Leipzig.
Palmer, though, has been unfazed, going about his work with the kind of quality and determination that belies his tender age. Always looking to probe and create, he was averaging more progressive passes than any other player in the Premier League at the start of November, and continues to lead the division in passes into the penalty area.
His versatility is outstanding, too, with his effectiveness so far undiminished whether he is playing as an attacking midfielder, on the wing or as a false nine.
While it’s evident that he is one of those players whose contributions aren’t necessarily reflected in statistics, as he hangs back and looks to act as the catalyst, he does have four assists already, as well as four penalty goals.