Cole Palmer looked like Cole Palmer again but Chelsea's progress this year will be hampered by sticking with Robert Sanchez in goal, argued Jamie Carragher.

Palmer was back to his best in the 3-2 win over Fulham, producing the kind of performance that reminded everyone why he has become one of the Premier League's most explosive players. There was swagger to his performance again - the confidence, invention and end product that made him such a phenomenon when he first arrived at Stamford Bridge.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Palmer, when asked if he was ready to go this season, replied: "Did you not watch the game? I'm only joking, I'm ready. It was a difficult season with injuries and whatnot but through the summer and since I've been back I've worked extra hard."

Palmer was controversially left out of England's World Cup squad this summer by Thomas Tuchel and Sky Sports' Gary Neville thinks that snub could be a big blessing in disguise. Neville said: "Look, maybe it's the best thing that's ever happened to Cole Palmer, because maybe his career is just drifting a little bit and he gets a massive kick up the backside."

It took only 31 seconds for Joao Pedro's goal to bring the visitors' new era to life under Xabi Alonso - it was an attacking display that was scintillating at times with new signing Morgan Rogers dovetailing beautifully with his great mate Palmer.