Micah Richards has hailed Cole Palmer as Chelsea’s ‘main man’ this season, following the 21-year-old’s performance during Saturday’s 1-0 win against Fulham.

Palmer and Chelsea put last Tuesday’s Carabao Cup loss to Middlesbrough behind them by picking up all three points against Marco Silva’s men at Stamford Bridge.

It was a third consecutive win for the Blues, who are now up to ninth on the Premier League table.

Palmer provided the goal just before the end of the first half, after Chelsea laboured so hard to break down the visitors’ defence.

Raheem Sterling was fouled by Issa Diop after drifting into the Fulham 18-yard area, following an exquisite pass from Palmer. The Chelsea summer recruit also stepped up to dispatch the resulting penalty kick and pick up his ninth goal of the season.

Richards, who was on Match of the Day, was so pleased with the Chelsea attacker, whom he also admitted has been a core part of Microsoft Pochettino’s side this term.

“Against Luton he scored two goals and got one assist and it was more from a central position,” said Richards.

“He started out on the right against Fulham and he was ineffective for the first 30 minutes. He didn’t really create anything for the first 30 minutes.

“But what he did, what all intelligent players do, is to find a way to get involved int he game.

“We talked about Kevin De Bruyne getting into space and this time it’s Palmer. It’s really good.

“What I like about him is he always wants to play forward.”

On Palmer’s penalty goal, Richards said: “He steps up, five in five penalties. He’s so cool isn’t he?

“All the good players can deal with the ball in these tight situations. Even when he loses it.

“When you’re in tight situations you need someone to be calm. He’s playing some of the best football.”

“His best position is definitely No.10,” Richards added.

“Look at how important he is! Nine goals and four assists.

“He’s just the main man of this team. He’s brilliant to watch.”