Rosenior: Palmer is a huge part of Chelsea's long-term plans

Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior insisted that Cole Palmer is a part of their "long-term plans" amid transfer speculation.

Palmer scored in the Blues’ win over Brentford last time out in the Premier League, but was rested for their Champions League game against Pafos as he recovers from a groin injury.

The 23-year-old has played just 12 league games this season and appeared only once in the Champions League, scoring five times across those matches.

Since he moved to Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2023, only Mohamed Salah (81), Erling Haaland (78) and Ollie Watkins (62) have recorded more direct goal involvements than Palmer (59) in the English top flight.

Palmer has been linked with a move to Manchester United in recent days, despite Chelsea still having a chance of winning three trophies this season.

Rosenior, though, poured cold water on those rumours, making it clear that his sole focus is on getting the England international fully fit again.

"I've had numerous conversations with Cole and he seems very happy to be here. He is very happy to be here," said Rosenior.

"He's a huge part of our long-term plans. He is an outstanding player and every player in their career will go through difficult spells with injury.

"My job and the club's job is to get him into a situation where he can consistently perform to the level he wants to. There was frustration in the Brentford game, but that was from him being in pain and not able to perform at highest possible level.

"We need to look after him and that's why I didn't involve him in the last game.

"I need to look after the players. Not just in terms of Cole, but there's a number of players in the group to look after, and can't just force them out.

"I want us to be involved at the end of the season in big games and big competitions."