Rosenior dismisses ‘unrealistic’ reports Palmer is unsettled at Chelsea

Liam Rosenior has insisted there is “no reason” to discuss Cole Palmer’s future with the Chelsea hierarchy – because reports the England star is unhappy at the club are “so unrealistic”.

Blues head coach Rosenior was speaking in Italy on the eve of his side’s Champions League game against Napoli.

Palmer was not involved against Crystal Palace on Sunday, prompting more speculation about his future, but is with the squad in Naples.

“I’m not surprised at the timing. A new manager comes in and all of a sudden there’s people are looking to unsettle. It’s not true,” said Rosenior.

“Cole’s here, he’s very happy and can’t wait to see him on the pitch.”

Asked if he had sought assurances about Palmer from Chelsea’s owners, Rosenior said: “There’s no reason for an assurance. It’s so unrealistic.

“It’s come from nowhere. There’s nothing in it. There’s no reason to have the conversation.

“Cole is very happy. We’ve had numerous conversations with him on how we can make this team better, how he can improve and how I can help him – because he loves being here and he wants to be a Chelsea player.

“You can’t stop speculation, but some speculation is so far from the truth there’s no point having any discussion about it.”

Chelsea need to beat Napoli in their final league-stage match to finish in the top eight and go through to the next phase without needing to play two play-off matches. They are currently in eighth spot, level on points with five other sides.