“Anything I can do to help him, I try to do” - Chelsea star on partnership with in-form Cole Palmer after win against Fulham
Chelsea star Raheem Sterling reflected on his partnership with Cole Palmer after the Blues' 1-0 win against Fulham at Craven Cottage on Saturday, January 13.
Palmer scored a penalty in the injury time of the first half (45+4') to give Mauricio Pochettino's side the lead in their Premier League clash. The Blues were able to hold onto the lead and gain valuable three points.
Speaking to the media after the game, Sterling reflected on his partnership with Palmer, telling the media (via Chels_Hq on X):
"Cole [Palmer] is someone I know very well and someone with a lot of ability. Anything I can do to help him, I try to do. He's got his goal today and he gets in great positions, he can time a pass or cut inside and shoot."
Since his reported £40 million summer arrival from Manchester City, young Palmer has been a crucial player for Chelsea. He has so far scored eight goals and has provided seven assists in 21 appearances for the Stamford Bridge club.
Cole Palmer and Raheem Sterling were teammates at Manchester City as well. They played 11 matches together for the Cityzens, combining in one goal. The duo have continued the partnership successfully at west London, playing 20 games together for the Blues, combining in three goals.
Meanwhile, Pochettino's side climbed to eighth spot in the Premier League standings courtesy of the win against Fulham. The Blues have 31 points from 21 matches and have won four out of their last five league games.
They will return to action on January 23 to take on Middlesbrough in the second leg of the EFL Cup semi-finals. Michael Carrick's Boro earned a surprise 1-0 win in the first leg at home.
Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino shows trust in Cole Palmer
Since his summer transfer, Cole Palmer has continuously made goal contributions for Chelsea. While the 21-year-old missed a few sitters during the EFL Cup defeat against Middlesbrough on January 10, Pochettino re-affirmed his belief in the midfielder.
The Blues boss said to the media after the game (via Eurosport):
"We believe in him [Palmer], even when he didn't score with the three big chances in Middlesbrough."
Pochettino further spoke about the importance of young players feeling supported by the staff. He said:
“We believe in him and he has the quality to play. It is important for young guys to feel the support of the coaching staff, club and team-mates."
Pochettino continued:
“It is the first season they [Palmer and Levi Colwill] are playing consistently every week and this kind of up and down can happen. It is important to relay that confidence and belief."
Cole Palmer has mainly operated from the right for Chelsea. In Nicolas Jackson's absence, Palmer's goals are proving to be valuable. His notable technical acumen has also been on display.