Cole and Malo made the difference at the Bridge on Saturday afternoon, with Palmer putting us ahead as he converted his first goal since September, before Gusto doubled our advantage after assisting the opener.

Wes, who was also extremely impressive, pointed to the duo’s influence as key in the fight against the Toffees, opening his praise by focusing on Cole’s quality as the forward continues to manage his fitness as he returns to action.

‘He’s a star – he’s the best player in the team when he’s on the pitch,’ Fofana said.

‘He’s a different player. Everyone says that. In just 60 minutes against Everton he showed that. We’re happy he is back, and we hope he stays fit.

‘Cole is close to the level of the guys like Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele – he’s a very good player. I’ve had the opportunity to play with and against some very good players, and he’s at the top.’

Fofana also couldn’t forget his fellow countryman, singling out Gusto for his dominating display from full-back.

‘I’m very happy for Malo,’ Wes beamed. ‘He’s my friend, and we’re very close. A goal and an assist – I’m very proud of him because he works very hard every day.

‘We all played well, and the team did a great job. We kept the clean sheet, scored two goals – and we could’ve scored more – but it was a good performance.’

The centre-back understands there are plenty more trials and tribulations to come throughout the hectic month of December, but Wes is confident that the Blues will rise to the challenge.

‘It’s been a hard month, and it’s not finished with Cardiff soon, and then Newcastle on the weekend, and plenty more closer to Christmas and New Year,’ Wes explained.

‘We will try to give everything. The manager and the staff have managed the team well, and everyone is focused and concentrated on our work. We want to try to win as many games as possible. We will work hard.’