Cole Palmer admits he is not yet fully fit after leading Chelsea to victory over Wolves in the Premier League on Saturday.
The playmaker scored three first-half goals to become the first ever player to get a hat-tricks in the opening period of a Premier League game on three separate occasions.
Tolu Arokodare got one back after the break, but the Blues ran out 3-1 winners to ensure they remain fifth in the table.
Cole Palmer makes fitness admission after Chelsea beat Wolves
Palmer, who was making just his 12th top-flight start of the campaign, has seen his minutes managed after dealing with groin issues and a broken toe earlier this season. But the 23-year-old is hopeful that he can put his problems fully behind him soon.
“It felt good to score some goals and get three points,” he told BBC Match of the Day after the full-time whistle.
“I don’t think [I’m 100 per cent fit] just yet. Obviously people don’t know what goes on behind the scenes but being injured the whole season is not ideal and when I’m not able to perform as I want to because I’ve been injured, and still dealing with the injury, but hopefully I can get over the injury soon by managing it. I know what level I can provide when I feel 100 per cent fit.
“Not being 100 per cent fit isn’t ideal, I still feel like I can help the team but when I’m back to full fitness I feel like I can go to another level.”
Palmer is now on seven league goals for the season, with four of them coming from the penalty spot.
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