Joe Cole has insisted that it is vital that Chelsea keep Conor Gallagher at the club this month after the midfielder impressed in the 1-0 win over Fulham.
Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino admitted earlier this month that Gallagher's future at Stamford Bridge is uncertain amid shock links to Tottenham.
However, former Chelsea star Cole believes that the Blues have to retain the services of their academy product, who he says was 'outstanding' against Fulham.
Speaking on TNT Sports, Cole said: 'You've got to credit the boys for getting it over the line. Gallagher outstanding again. He must start February in a Chelsea shirt. I'm really pleased for Pochettino.'
Chelsea have lacked consistency this season but the performances of Cole Palmer have been one of the plus points of the campaign.
Palmer bounced back from a frustrating night against Middlesbrough in the Carabao Cup to score the only goal of the game with a penalty as Chelsea beat Fulham 1-0.
Cole claimed that Manchester City made a rare mistake in allowing Palmer to leave the club and stressed that the 21-year-old is going to be a 'massive' player for Chelsea.
Cole said: 'Man City don't make mistakes but I think they have on this occasion. You want to come and watch him. Cole Palmer is going to be a massive player for this club.'
Palmer has made a major impact for Chelsea, scoring nine goals and providing four assists across 17 Premier League appearances.
Chelsea signed Palmer for an initial fee of £40million and it has certainly proven to be an excellent acquisition so far.
Although he was part of the first-team squad at City, Palmer has proceeded to truly establish himself at Chelsea and has also broken into the England squad.
