Eden Hazard claims Chelsea have a £40m player above Bukayo Saka’s level

Chelsea and Arsenal are set to renew their rivalry in the second leg of the EFL Cup semi-finals, with both teams having plenty to play for.

Liam Rosenior’s second game in charge ended in a 3-2 loss to their London rivals. Even though Chelsea put up a strong fight late on, they have got work to do if they want to turn things around.

Alejandro Garnacho scored twice after coming off the bench to keep Chelsea’s hopes alive, but the team clearly missed some creativity from the start.

While Cole Palmer has not featured much under Rosenior due to injury, he showed what he can do by setting up two goals against Napoli in his return from the bench during a Champions League match.

Cole Palmer picked over Bukayo Saka by Eden Hazard

Palmer will be looking to make his mark if he returns to the line-up, especially with the spotlight on him and fellow England international Bukayo Saka.

It is a comparison that comes up often, and both have also been mentioned alongside Phil Foden in discussions about the top young talent in English football.

When asked for his opinion, Chelsea great Eden Hazard did not hesitate to choose Palmer over Saka.

The former Belgium international also preferred Palmer when compared to Lamine Yamal, who has recently been shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or.

Cole Palmer getting high praise from teammates after record night

Palmer equalled a club record in the Champions League with his two assists off the bench against Napoli. Nicolas Anelka is the only other Chelsea substitute to have achieved that.

Both of Palmer’s assists were finished by Joao Pedro, who later called him a ‘special’ player after the match.

Club captain Reece James also spoke highly of Palmer, and it has become clear just how much his absence has been felt when he has not been available.

Liam Rosenior may look to rest him against West Ham this weekend, keeping him fresh for their trip to the Emirates.