Cole Palmer is always a talking point. He is a fan favourite at Chelsea, but when it comes to England, the Blues superstar is always criticised. Finally, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has spoken sense.

So much criticism came Palmer’s way when he pulled out of England’s squad for the extended break in September. Thomas Tuchel led the way, perhaps using the media to help create a narrative around him.

His patriotism and integrity in an England shirt have been questioned. But with his England career on the line, why would Palmer play for the Three Lions when he’s not fully fit? A sub-par display won’t help.

But Palmer has endured 12 months of pain. The Chelsea star has had to play through injury; he has had no break in the last three summers; keeping fit is of paramount importance. Hasselbaink explains it well.

Hasselbaink says Palmer was hurt at World Cup omission

Palmer even admitted he couldn’t shoot at times last season, as if he was playing on one leg. Something which he later admitted during a gaming stream. He still managed to score 11 goals for the Blues.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, former Chelsea star Hasselbaink shared why Palmer didn’t play for England in the last break, and further explained that Palmer was “hurt” when he was overlooked in the summer.

“I think Tuchel has done it on purpose. He has to, you know, give him a little niggle. You know, ‘I need you fit. I need you to want to be part of it.’ I know Palmer. If he’s not fit, if he’s injured, it’s better not to go.

“Because the moment he gets the opportunity, he’s going to want to produce. And if you have to play with an injury, you’re not giving yourself the best chance. And believe me, he wants to be there.

“He wants to play for England. He loves England. It hurt him so much not being part of the World Cup squad. He wants to be called up. If he is fit, then he will definitely go. He wants to be there,” he said.

Palmer and Hasselbaink are now two of Chelsea’s best three

Ironically, Hasselbaink’s defence of Palmer comes a few days after he scored his 50th league goal for Chelsea from the penalty spot against Man United, during Saturday’s 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge.

It saw Palmer become the third-quickest to score 50 Premier League goals in Chelsea’s history. Only two have managed it in fewer than Palmer’s 105 appearances: Diego Costa (85) and Hasselbaink in just 84.

Palmer is a magician. He is Chelsea’s best player. He is one of England’s best players. But he can only provide that quality if he is allowed to give his all, if he is fit and if he is used in the right way.