Heading into the clash on the back of their 1-0 FA Cup semi-final triumph over Leeds United, Chelsea are aiming to collect 3 points to keep their European hopes alive.
As they chase down Champions League football, Palmer, 23 years old, has scored only 10 goals in all competitions, by far his lowest return since moving to Stamford Bridge from Manchester City in 2023.
His poor form has been well reported by the media, especially ahead of the World Cup this summer where England boss Thomas Tuchel has a big call to make on the midfielder.
Ahead of the Forest clash, McFarlane jumped to the defence of Palmer who he believes could play a key role in the final 3 games of the campaign.
“It's been a difficult period for Cole,’ said McFarlane. “He's had the first injury that he's pretty much ever had in his career and he's had to learn how to deal with that.
“I think there are obviously games where he can impact more, but there have also been a lot of occasions when he's created a lot of good chances for players, and he can't control whether they’re finished.
“I do think he's had some really good games in the last three months, and it's just a case of building that consistency. I'm really pleased with Cole. He shows us his talent every single day, his energy and his enthusiasm to play, and he's still a top player, one of the best in the world for me.
“So I have no concerns over Cole being ready to impact games from now to the end of the season and, hopefully, in the World Cup in big moments for England.”
Palmer featured in the draw against Uruguay and the defeat to Japan, both at Wembley as England prepare for the World Cup. Whether Tuchel will pick him is unknown, but he must start to show his old self if he is to stand a chance.