Cole Palmer has admitted he was hopeful of finding the back of the net during Chelsea’s 6-1 Carabao Cup win against Middlesbrough on Tuesday night.

The 21-year-old was on target twice for the Blues, with Axel Disasi, Enzo Fernandez and Noni Madueke also finding the back of the net in the home win.

It was particularly a pleasant experience for Palmer, who missed a few open opportunities during the 1-0 first-leg loss at the Riverside stadium, and was widely criticised for it.

He said after the game: “After the first game, we knew it’d be difficult but to get the win and go to Wembley for the first time this season, it’s going to be a good day.

“I missed three sitters in the first game so it was always in the back of my mind coming into this game. To score two and go through to Wembley, I’m happy.

“We’ve not had the best of starts, there is no hiding it but to go to Wembley is a great opportunity to get a trophy and we’re looking forward to it.”