Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca says Chelsea must find solutions to Cole Palmer's increased attention from rival defenders after difficult evening on south coast for England star

The England international was barely given a yard of space all Saturday evening away to Bournemouth with Lewis Cook following his every move.

And while the Blues left the south coast with three points thanks to substitute Christopher Nkunku's late winner, Maresca believes there are lessons to be learned around Palmer's new reality.

Palmer was fouled four times and could not make a decisive impact in the final third as Chelsea lived dangerously on occasion before finding a way to win.

Chelsea travel next to face West Ham on lunchtime Saturday but much of the focus remains on the ownership rift between Bedhad Eghbali and Todd Boehly.

"In this kind of game you need to learn that it isn't just about the tactical part - you need something inside, to win duels and all the games are different.

"To win the game, you have to win with the T-shirt dirty - probably [getting] some yellow cards because they had many yellow cards. These kind of games require these kinds of things."

Jadon Sancho celebrates with Christopher Nkunku ( Image:

He told Sky: "First of all it is amazing to make my debut for Chelsea. Just being back playing I'm very grateful. The team played very well and we are happy with the three points.

"I've been working hard for this moment and I'm just happy that I got my chance. I had a great end to last season being in the Champions League final and I just told myself going into this season so I'm just happy to make my debut for Chelsea.

"I have to thank all the staff and my team-mates. The first day I came in, they made me feel welcome and I'm so happy to feel this comfortable."

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more Sky has slashed the price of its Sky Sports, Sky Stream, Sky TV and Netflix bundle in an unbeatable new deal that saves PS216 and includes 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.

With Ultra HD included at no extra cost, football fans can enjoy the 2024/25 season with crystal clear picture quality.