Cole Palmer was largely on the periphery when he collected a title-winners medal in 2022-23, with 12 of his 14 appearances for Manchester City coming from the substitute’s bench that term.

But he has been a key player for Chelsea since arriving at the club in September 2023, with his form establishing him in the England squad and now propelling the Blues to within touching distance of top spot.

Arguably the player of the season so far, only Mohamed Salah and Erling Haaland have more Premier League goals than the attacking midfielder this term, while he also has provided the fifth most assists in the division.

Centre forward Nicolas Jackson also has a healthy return of eight goals from 14 appearances, with his goal ratio per 90 minutes improving significantly from 0.35 in 2023-24 to 0.65 in the current campaign.

His shooting accuracy has climbed from 65% to 75%, with Palmer’s close proximity and a wide supply line from the likes of Noni Madueke, Neto and Jadon Sancho all aiding the Senegal international.

But there are also signs that the Blues’ expensively assembled midfield is now flourishing.

Chelsea were largely a source of ridicule for the vast spending of about £1.5bn on young stars from across the world on long-term contracts.

However, that strategy appears to be reaping dividends.

Argentina international Enzo Fernandez is living up to his billing as a British record signing while Romeo Lavia and Caicedo are forming an effective tandem.

Unlike several of the other potential contenders, Maresca also has the luxury of being able to field a virtually different XI depending on what competition his side are playing in, and has been able to fully capitalise on the depth of his squad.

Speaking on TNT Sports former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole said: “It is looking great. Maresca so far is manager of the season with what he has had to contend with, with the squad.

“Since last September it has been an upward curve, faultless in Europe.

“The midfield is dominating most games. I still feel there is a way to go but if come January they are within four points of Liverpool, I think they are in a title race and they are closer than that now.”

Former England and Tottenham forward, Peter Crouch added: “Maresca has been fantastic so far, with the way he has got rid of players he didn’t want.

“It felt unmanageable but he created a harmonious atmosphere. They all want to play for the shirt.”