Cole Palmer's recent goal struggles persisted in Chelsea's narrow 1-0 victory over Leicester City on Sunday. Not only did he miss a penalty, but he also stretched his goal drought in the Premier League to eight games.

But what impressed was the sheer determination that saw him on the pitch despite fighting illness.

Palmer's Health Scare: Fever, Diarrhea Before the Match

Cole Palmer Pushes Through Illness But Misses Penalty in Chelsea Cole Palmer Pushes Through Illness But Misses Penalty in Chelsea
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According to ESPN, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca disclosed during the post-match interview that Palmer had fallen ill in the days leading up to the match. The 21-year-old did not train the day before because of a fever and dire stomach complications.

Despite his health issues, Palmer demanded to play, showing his dedication to the club's Champions League drive.

"It's very easy: Cole didn't train yesterday and during the night he didn't feel well," Maresca answered when asked about Palmer's subdued game.

"The reason why he didn't train yesterday is fever and diarrhea in the last 48 hours," the Chelsea head coach revealed. "This morning, he woke up and he asked me, 'I want to be on the pitch because I want to help this team, this club to play Champions League'. This shows how these players want to bring the club where it belongs to."

A Testing Night for Chelsea's Top Scorer

Palmer has been Chelsea's standout performer this season, usually providing match-winning moments. Yet, his recent run of poor form—his last league goal being Jan. 14 against Bournemouth—has left some worried, according to Goal.

The penalty miss against Leicester only added to his woes, showing that even the best players can experience tough periods.

Chelsea Climb to Fourth Despite Attacking Troubles

Despite the less-than-stellar performance by Palmer, Chelsea took a vital win. The three points pushed them into fourth place in the Premier League, displacing Manchester City by two points in the chase for Champions League qualification.

Should Maresca Get Sacked?

According to Football Insider, insider Mick Brown said that Maresca is on the verge of getting sacked by the owners if Chelsea's results don't improve. There are also speculations that if the team fails to qualify for the Champions League, Palmer could leave Chelsea.