Palmer set the bar so high in his first couple of years with the club, with 43 goals across his first two seasons at Stamford Bridge. Undoubtedly, there is still time for him to reach those heights again with the Blues and under Rosenior.
But with a World Cup on the horizon and three competitions for Chelsea still to play for this season, he could do with finding some form again sooner rather than later.
The player and his new coach were spotted in talks on the pitch after the final whistle as Arsenal celebrated on Tuesday. They clearly have plenty to discuss.
“What we’re doing not just with Cole, but all of the players, is doing the right tests,” said Rosenior.
“We are making sure these players can play at the level they need to be. He’s been magnificent, he wants to play every minute of every game, but he’s also maturing as a human being and understands the bigger picture.
“The lads played the Club World Cup and had no break. Then they have World Cups to go to.
“I’m trying to get the best out of him and the rest of the team all of the time while taking into account the games coming up.
“It’s not about being not able to play him in some games, it’s making sure he feels right and contributing to the team the way he wants to.”
