The 21-year-old joined the Blues from Manchester City before the deadline last summer and he has already made three goal contributions.

He has the opportunity to extend the good run against the Gunners but it is unclear whether he will be fit for the London derby.

Speaking in today's press conference, England Under-21 boss Lee Carsley has revealed that Palmer has returned to Chelsea in advance.

The midfielder suffered a dead leg during the recent 9-0 win over Serbia and Carsley did not want to take a risk with him next week.

As a result, he has been sent back to the Blues ahead of schedule, but Palmer could now face a race against time to make the derby.

Chelsea host the Gunners at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. The Blues have the opportunity to close the gap to the top four with a win.

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