“That’s what separates him from the rest” - Micah Richards highlights what makes Chelsea star Cole Palmer stand out after stellar Brighton display
Pundit Micah Richards recently praised Chelsea superstar Cole Palmer, touching on what makes the 22-year-old stand out among his peers. This comes after Palmer's truly stunning performance in the Blues' 4-2 win over Brighton & Hove Albion at Stamford Bridge on September 8, where he scored all four goals.
Last season, Palmer was the side's most important player, leading the charge with 22 goals and 11 assists across 34 Premier League games. His performances saw him called up to the England national team for Euro 2024, where the Three Lions got to the final and lost to Spain.
While he had an impressive debut season at Chelsea, some may have argued it was mere beginner's luck. However, Palmer's second season with the Blues has also begun admirably, as he has already picked up six goals and provided four assists in just six Premier League games.
After his breathtaking four-goal haul against Brighton, Micah Richards had only words of praise for Cole Palmer. The Manchester City legend spoke about the Blues playmaker on the Rest is Football podcast, saying (via TBR Football):
“Cole Palmer can play on the right and in central areas. Joleon [Lescott] mentioned about playing deep. He can play anywhere. And I think that’s what separates him from the rest. I think he can have an effect on the game from whatever position he is playing.”
Chelsea will return to action on October 3 when they welcome Gent to Stamford Bridge for their first Europa Conference League clash this season. However, Palmer will not be available for the game, following the Blues' decision to omit him from the continental competition and keep him fit for Premier League games.
Enzo Maresca pushes Cole Palmer to do more after Chelsea beat Brighton 4-2
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca will be happy following Cole Palmer's record-breaking four-goal haul against Brighton. The 22-year-old notably scored all four goals in the first half, with his hat-trick spanning just ten minutes.
Maresca spoke about Palmer's performance on the day, telling the press after the game that he wants the playmaker to remain hungry and ambitious. He said (via Football.london):
"Yeah, for sure, when you score four goals. I just said to Cole, he scored four but he could have scored two or three more. It is important he continues to be hungry and ambitious...
"So, goals and assists, the best player in the Premier League; this does not change the way he is. He is a simple guy, a humble guy - and for me, this is the most important thing."
Cole Palmer is likely to return to the starting lineup when the Blues face Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge on October 6 ahead of the international break.