Palmer was not actually at his fluent best yesterday for Chelsea, which is probably a big reason as to why they were not able to win last night.

Chelsea draw with Sheffield United

He still set up what looked like it was going to be the winning goal for a while, feeding Noni Madueke who lashed home a fierce strike midway through the second half.

Chelsea’s defensive frailties showed though, and even a popular change at the back was not enough to help sort things out.

Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images

Thiago Silva started his first game in a while after missing eight on the spin for various reasons.

It soon emerged that this was a popular decision amongst the first team squad, and it took him only minutes to repay that faith in him with a goal from a corner.

Palmer praises Silva

Palmer was quick to let him know what he thought of his display after the game, commenting positive emojis on his Instagram post following the game.

Cole Palmer on Thiago Silva’s Instagram

It remains to be seen if Silva keeps his place in the side for the foreseeable future, with the recent defensive record at the club being a serious concern now.

It is expected that he will not sign another new deal at the club, meaning his £110k-a-week contract is set to expire at the end of the current campaign.

While his experience is likely key in most scenarios, the choice may have to be made to start to build towards a future without the veteran, which right now looks a very realistic prospect from as early as next season.