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Cole Palmer's talent is worthy of the highest Champions League stage, so it was fitting he was back to his brilliant best to push Chelsea closer to a return to Europe's elite tournament.

But when Chelsea and head coach Enzo Maresca needed him, Palmer was the inspiration behind their 3-1 win against newly crowned Premier League champions Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.

The visitors, understandably, carried an air of lethargy following the emotional high of securing their 20th title in front of an ecstatic Anfield last weekend, but Chelsea still needed to take advantage and their lavishly gifted 22-year-old was the catalyst.

Chelsea win 'important' in Champions League race - but who will prevail?

These were Palmer's big moments but he had an overall impact on a game that was so crucial to Chelsea, who are now only behind fourth-placed Newcastle United on goals scored – 62 against 66 – with the same goal difference of plus-21.