Chelsea interim head coach Calum McFarlane has singled out Cole Palmer and Malo Gusto for their impressive display against Liverpool in Saturday’s Premier League clash at Anfield.

Chelsea secured a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Arne Slot’s side in a match that saw both teams share the spoils after goals from Ryan Gravenberch and Enzo Fernandez.

Speaking after the game, McFarlane praised his side’s attacking movement and tactical effectiveness, particularly on the right flank.

“I think we were effective on both sides, in my honest opinion,” McFarlane said.

“I thought Cole [Palmer] and Malo [Gusto] caused them real problems with their rotation on the right.”

The Chelsea boss also commended Marc Cucurella for his intelligent off-ball movement during the encounter.

“And I thought, yeah, you are right in terms of Cucurella running off the ball and finding space with great movement,” he added.

Chelsea will now turn their attention to next weekend’s FA Cup final against Manchester City.

Opinion: Chelsea May Finally Be Showing Tactical Identity Again

For much of the season, Chelsea have struggled with consistency, chemistry, and identity. But performances like the one at Anfield suggest there may finally be a clearer structure developing within the squad.

The praise for Cole Palmer and Malo Gusto is significant because it highlights more than individual brilliance—it points to coordinated movement and tactical understanding.

Palmer continues to look like the creative heartbeat of Chelsea’s attack, while Gusto’s energy and overlapping runs are adding balance to the right side. Their connection caused visible discomfort for Liverpool throughout the game.

Perhaps more importantly, Chelsea showed resilience at one of the toughest grounds in English football. A draw at Anfield is rarely easy, especially against a Liverpool side known for intensity and pressing.

The challenge now is consistency.

Chelsea have produced flashes of quality this season, but the next step is turning strong individual performances into sustained momentum. With an FA Cup final against Manchester City approaching, this result could provide a much-needed confidence boost.

If the Blues can build on this tactical discipline and attacking chemistry, they may finally be moving toward the stability fans have been waiting for.