Chelsea, Maresca and the Champions League DilemmaChelsea’s Champions League Battle and Palmer’s FutureEnzo Maresca is adamant that Chelsea’s chances of retaining Cole Palmer do not hinge on

Enzo Maresca says Chelsea do not need Champions League football to convince Cole Palmer of his future at the club - but admits missing out on the top four could impact their summer transfer business.

Enzo Maresca has hinted that Cole Palmer could face an uncertain future at Chelsea if they fail to qualify for the Champions League this season.

Merson told Sportskeeda: “Chelsea are struggling so badly at the moment. I look at them and they are missing Nicolas Jackson quite badly. Without him, I don’t see a real pattern of play. Jackson’s absence is also affecting Cole Palmer, who has to drop deeper now.”

Chelsea’s over-reliance on Cole Palmer is affecting his form, manager Enzo Maresca said Monday, with the England star going through his driest run since moving to the London club. Palmer hasn’t scored in his last six games and his last assist came 13 matches ago.

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca says the club will sit down to discuss Cole Palmer's future at the end of the season.

Chelsea star Cole Palmer hasn't scored or assisted a goal in six matches, and the Blues have won just twice in their last 10 games - putting their Champions League hopes in danger

Enzo Maresca has called for the rest of his Chelsea team to step up and ease the pressure on the ‘struggling’ Cole Palmer who is ‘upset the club are not winning games’. Palmer has not found the back of the net since the 2-2 draw with Bournemouth in January and has gone 13 games without providing an assist.