Palmer has been the Blues’ best player this season, somewhat single-handedly guiding the club to within touching distance of European football despite what has been an underwhelming campaign.

The ex-Manchester City star has scored 21 goals and assisted nine in 31 league appearances this season, making him one of the most influential players in the entire Premier League. Palmer’s efforts were duly rewarded on Tuesday night at Chelsea’s awards evenings as he claimed two accolades.

The England international was awarded both Men’s Player of the Season and Men’s Players’ Player of the Season, and the versatile playmaker was keen to thank his teammates in his acceptance speeches.

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He said: “It's been a dream debut season for me. Thank you to the manager, staff, players and, of course, the fans. I just came to play to showcase my abilities and talent to the fans. It's gone amazing, probably better than I'd imagined. Buzzing!"

Palmer was then asked who he voted for as his Player of the Season, to which he replied: “I voted for Malo Gusto. I love playing with him on the right. He's been amazing this season when he's played as well.”

Gusto is also one of the few players to emerge from Stamford Bridge with credit this season, and the vote of confidence from his teammates will be a welcome morale boost for the Frenchman. Palmer’s praise of the full-back may not go unnoticed by Pochettino either, as the ex-Tottenham boss could have a dilemma on his hands.

Club captain James has hardly featured for Chelsea this season due to injury, but the good form of Gusto is threatening to keep him out of the team upon his return to fitness. Pochettino has often played to the strengths of Palmer and it could be short-sighted of the Argentine to ignore the connections that his key attacking outlet has referred to.

James has been linked with a move away from the Blues previously and although an appraisal from a teammate is unlikely to prove decisive, the higher powers at Chelsea may be more willing to entertain offers for their skipper with a top-quality successor already on the books.