The west London giants were in superb form earlier this month with five league wins on the bounce, but they have suffered a double setback.

The Blues played out a goalless draw against Everton last weekend. This has been followed by a shock defeat to the Cottagers at home.

Chelsea were leading 1-0 until the 81st minute before a stunning turnaround by the visitors. Fulham won at the Bridge for the first time in 45 years.

Speaking after the game, Palmer said that the Blues are learning from the experience and the club are not title contenders at the moment.

He said: "We knew we weren't going to win every game. It is the manager's first season with us.

"We are learning. Everyone said from the start we aren't title contenders. We are just getting better as a team and growing."

Chelsea are second in the table despite the defeat, but they could drop to third if Arsenal were to beat Ipswich Town at the Emirates Stadium.

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