With 60 goals in 69 games for Chelsea, Cole Palmer has lead from the front in terms of the quality of his performances since his arrival from Manchester City. But as Enzo Maresca explained after our 3-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers, there is much more to leadership than simply finding the back of the net.
Having averaged almost a goal contribution a game since signing for the club in the summer of 2023, Palmer is not short of contenders when it comes to his best displays in Blue.
So considering the 22-year-old did not score or record a direct assist against Wolves - although it was from his free-kick that Trevoh Chalobah headed down for Noni Madueke's goal - it may come as a surprise to some supporters to hear Maresca believes Monday night's display was one of Palmer's best since the Italian took charge in July.
Palmer's movement and ability to take the ball on the turn caused constant problems in the opening half at Stamford Bridge but it was not that which impressed his head coach most.
For Maresca, it was Palmer's desire to get on the ball and make a real difference in the second half, when the momentum had shifted slightly and the Blues needed to produce a reaction.
When Chelsea needed him, Palmer stood up to be counted and helped his team to victory.
'Tonight was one of the best games from Cole in terms of showing leadership when it was a difficult moment for the team,' Maresca said.
‘Second half he was asking for the ball and you need to see that kind of moment from the players, not only when they are scoring goals or giving assists. They are very important for the team when the team needs them and they are there.
‘Cole had the problem in his ankle and he was there asking for the ball in the second half and was the leader of the team. So we are very happy with Cole’s performance.’