Arsenal legend Paul Merson has defended Chelsea forward Cole Palmer ahead of the Blues’ Carabao Cup semi-final second leg tie with Middlesbrough at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night.\r\n\r\nMerson also issued a warning to Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino ahead of the Middlesbrough clash.\r\n\r\nRecall that Palmer missed good chances as Pochettino’s side lost 1-0 against the Championship club in the semi-final first-leg encounter earlier this month.