Cole Palmer delivered a goal and an assist as Chelsea overcame Fulham 3-2 at Craven Cottage, handing new manager Xabi Alonso a winning start to his Premier League career.

Joao Pedro and Morgan Rogers also found the net for the visitors, giving Chelsea enough firepower to withstand a spirited Fulham fightback and secure all three points on the road.

The match marked the Premier League managerial debut of both Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa — who took charge of Fulham — making it a landmark occasion on the touchline as well as the pitch.

Palmer was the standout performer, driving Chelsea's attacking play and contributing directly to the result. His involvement underlined why he remains one of the most dangerous players in the division.

Fulham showed resilience and refused to surrender without a fight, pulling goals back to keep the contest alive. But Chelsea held firm in the closing stages to deny their hosts a share of the spoils.

The 3-2 victory sets a positive tone for Alonso's tenure at Stamford Bridge, with Palmer once again demonstrating the quality that has made him central to Chelsea's ambitions this season.