Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer says European qualification would be a “step in the right direction” for the club.

The Blues moved up to sixth in the Premier League after Wednesday’s 2-1 win at Brighton.

Despite a difficult campaign, they will guarantee a spot in Europe next season if they claim a point at home to Bournemouth in Sunday’s final game.

“For it to be in our hands to get sixth place is a big thing for us,” said Palmer, who scored his 22nd goal of the season with the opener against the Seagulls.

“Chelsea are a big club and everyone wants to finish higher than sixth but you have to look at where we were at the start of the season.”

Mauricio Pochettino’s side have recovered from a poor start to the campaign and were in 12th place as recently as 3 April.

Palmer, 22, added: “To get back into Europe would be a step in the right direction.

“All credit to the manager. All the players love the manager and want to fight for him.”