Palmer shines as Alonso's Chelsea get up and running with win at Fulham

Chelsea's Cole Palmer his goal with Joao Pedro and Reece James. Alamy Stock Photo From The 42Premier League The Blues came out on top 3-2 at Craven Cottage. Fulham 2 Chelsea 3 XABI ALONSO MADE a winning start to life as Chelsea manager in a chaotic 3-2 win over Fulham at Craven Cottage. It took only 31 seconds for Joao Pedro’s goal to bring the visitors’ new era to life, but despite an attacking display that was scintillating at times, plenty still remained of the defensive frailties that have undermined this team in the recent past. Robert Sanchez’s poor attempt to keep out Josh King’s first-half equaliser was a reminder of areas of the pitch where Chelsea remains weak despite spending around €409 million this summer. That outlay included a record €134 million lavished on Morgan Rogers. T