With the number of Conference League squad places limited, Palmer is among those not selected for the league phase of the competition. The reason why was explained by Blues head coach Enzo Maresca last month.

'It’s very clear – we try to protect the players,’ Maresca outlined. ‘Romeo Lavia last year struggled to play [due to injury]. It was exactly the same for Wesley Fofana.

‘Cole is more or less the same in that he had a very busy last year with coming from Manchester City and playing many games – and then he didn’t come with us for pre-season because he finished quite late [because of Euro 2024].

'We are trying to protect the players and give them the right minutes at the right moment.’

Palmer's many qualities have been showcased throughout his time at Stamford Bridge, but something perhaps overlooked is his durability.

The England international missed just two matches last season after making his debut against Nottingham Forest in early September, while his two absences from the matchday squad this term have come against Barrow in the League Cup and our Conference League opener against Gent.

Palmer is, however, comfortable with the decision taken by Maresca, who he knows better than most having worked with the Italian at Manchester City.

'Enzo explained that it was because it was only my first full season in football last year, and he wants me to be fresh this season,' Palmer says when asked about the conversation between the pair. 'That’s the thinking behind it; I get more rest.’

Palmer watched on from behind the home dugout at Stamford Bridge for our 4-2 victory over Gent on matchday one – and he will again be a viewer as we take on Panathinaikos in Athens on Thursday evening.

‘It's different but you are able to take a bit more of the game in when you’re watching,’ Palmer outlines. ‘I do actually enjoy watching it all – but, of course, you wish you were playing sometimes!'