Enzo Maresca has revealed he’s very pleased with Cole Palmer and highlighted what’s pleased him most about the England international.
The Blues head to St James’ Park on Wednesday night for their Carabao Cup fourth round tie against Newcastle, looking to make it two wins in a matter of days against the Magpies.
Chelsea ground out a hard fought 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon which saw them move up to fifth, just a point behind Arsenal in third.
Maresca on what’s pleased him most about Palmer
Palmer was back to his brilliant best against Newcastle having endured a quiet afternoon at Anfield and played a key role in both goals.
He played a superb pass in the build up to Nicolas Jackson’s goal, which Jamie Carragher described as one of the best passes he’s ever seen in the Premier League, before firing home the winner early in the second half.
Palmer has picked up where he left off from his record breaking campaign last season and already has seven goals and five assists in nine games.
The 22-year-old has been touted as a future Ballon d’Or winner by Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola, and speaking ahead of the Newcastle game Maresca shared what’s pleased him most about Palmer.
“Very pleased [with Cole Palmer], especially because he’s enjoying himself,” he told his pre-match press conference.
“He’s continued to improve no matter which position. The other day he was in a different part of the pitch and did fantastic. Similar to Jadon, they have to work hard and enjoy.”
Palmer has thrived in the number ten role this season and it’s predominantly where he’s been deployed although he has the versatility to play wide or as a false nine if needed.
It’s unclear if he will start on Wednesday night, but it’s highly likely he will be on the bench at the minimum and you wouldn’t bet against him having an impact on the game.
