The Rise of Cole Palmer: England’s Secret Weapon for Euro 2024
Introduction:
The next few days are crucial for England hopefuls as they await Gareth Southgate’s final squad announcement for Euro 2024. Among the players virtually assured of a spot is Chelsea’s Cole Palmer, whose incredible rise has caught the attention of fans and experts alike.
Cole Palmer’s Breakthrough Season:
Palmer’s decision to leave Manchester City for Chelsea in a £42.5m deal last September surprised many in the football world. Despite being a key player for City and helping England win the European Under-21 Championship, he took a risk and made a permanent switch to Chelsea. This move has paid off tremendously, with Palmer scoring 22 goals and providing 11 assists in 33 league games. His remarkable form earned him the Premier League young player of the season award and made him the first Chelsea player since Eden Hazard to be directly involved in 25-plus goals in a single Premier League season.
The Impact at Chelsea:
Palmer’s performance in the Premier League this season has been outstanding. Only Erling Haaland scored more goals than him, and only Ollie Watkins provided more assists. In fact, Palmer’s combined total of goals and assists for the campaign is greater than any other player aged 21 or under from Europe’s top five leagues. Former Chelsea and Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas expressed his surprise at Palmer’s move to Chelsea but commended his impact, stating that he has been the player of the year for the club.
Expert Opinions:
Many experts have highlighted Palmer’s talent and potential. Former England defender Rio Ferdinand compared him to Chris Waddle, praising his superb skill and mesmerizing balance. He believes Palmer could be a great option for England, as he is relatively unknown on the international stage but possesses immense talent. Former England midfielder Joe Cole called Palmer an “absolute genius” and emphasized the importance of having technically gifted players like him in the squad.
Competition for a Starting Spot:
While Palmer is expected to make Southgate’s squad, securing a place in England’s starting XI is far from guaranteed. He faces tough competition from players like Phil Foden, Bukayo Saka, James Maddison, Anthony Gordon, and Jarrod Bowen. However, Palmer’s versatility, as he can play in various positions across the front line or even in a deeper midfield role, makes him a valuable asset and a potential game-changer for England.
Conclusion:
Cole Palmer’s rise from being relatively unknown to being hailed as England’s secret weapon for Euro 2024 is a testament to his talent and hard work. His decision to leave Manchester City for Chelsea has proven to be the right one, as he has thrived and become a key player for the club. With his impressive performances and versatility, Palmer has captured the attention of experts and fans alike, and his inclusion in England’s squad could provide the team with an additional edge in their pursuit of success.