Chelsea appears set to gain a significant boost this weekend with Cole Palmer expressing confidence in his fitness ahead of the match against Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge.

The 24-year-old withdrew from England’s latest Nations League squad due to a minor muscular issue, raising concerns reminiscent of last season's injury struggles. However, early indications suggest a positive recovery.

During the international break, Palmer focused on individual training with a specialist fitness coach in the Caribbean, aiming to enhance his fitness levels. Reports from The Sun, as noted by Metro, indicate that he is “set to be fit” for the Bournemouth clash and believes he can start.

His return would be a crucial boost for Xabi Alonso, especially since Palmer has made a strong start to the season, tallying four goals and two assists before his injury interrupted his momentum.

While Chelsea is optimistic about Palmer's return, they are also monitoring the fitness of Moises Caicedo and Marco Palestra. The Standard highlighted that the Bournemouth match is likely to mark Palmer's comeback.

While his presence against Bournemouth is vital, ensuring his long-term health is of greater importance. Chelsea has previously experienced the impact of losing their most creative player. Palmer’s unpredictability and goal threat are essential, particularly in tight matches.

Thus, while starting him could be beneficial if he completes training without issues, Chelsea must prioritize his overall fitness beyond just this game. A fully fit Palmer could be pivotal in steering their season toward success rather than another cycle of inconsistent performances.