Lee Dixon believes Man City could have a ready-made replacement for Riyad Mahrez in Cole Palmer after the winger’s ‘absolutely brilliant’ goal against Arsenal in the Community Shield final
- Palmer netted a fine strike in the Community Shield against Arsenal
- Former Gunner Dixon says that Pep Guardiola has a perfect Mahrez replacement
- The Algerian departed on a permanent transfer to Al-Ahli this summer
Former Arsenal player Lee Dixon heaped praise upon Man City goalscorer Cole Palmer during the Community Shield on Sunday.
The 21-year-old scored in the 77th minute as City took control of the Community Shield clash but a late Leandro Trossard equaliser saw Arsenal take the match to penalties, with the Gunners winning.
Kevin de Bruyne and Rodri both missed their spot-kicks as Arsenal came out 4-1 victors in the shoot-out.
Speaking to ITV during the clash, Dixon said that he believes Pep Guardiola has a ready-made replacement for Riyad Mahrez in Palmer.
‘What a talent this fella is. Mahrez leaving is there an opportunity for him?’ he said. ‘He has had one chance already, absolutely no chance for Ramsdale, he bends it, absolutely brilliant.
Cole Palmer netted the opening goal as Man City fell to defeat against Arsenal at Wembley
Lee Dixon has heaped praise on the youngster, believing he is ready to make the step up
Riyad Mahrez joined Al-Ahli as he agreed a permanent exit from Manchester City this summer
‘Gorgeous, gorgeous chance and he takes it. Could be the winner. Partey thought he had him, he used the defender’s body and it just bends away.’
Speaking after the match, Palmer opened up on the defeat as he admitted his team were upset to lose on penalties.
‘Very close, gutted to concede in the last minute, that’s football and we pick ourselves up and go again,’ he said before discussing his goal.
‘When I received the ball Walker just said get at him, Pep told me to be myself, when I came inside I saw the far corner and thankfully it went in.’
The 21-year-old has been linked with a loan departure this summer and continued to discuss his future, outlining his goals for the coming season.
He said: ‘Have to see what the plan is for next season, see where I am playing and hopefully play as many games as possible.
‘Hopefully we can win the treble again but that will be a difficult task. The lads have been sharp in training and hopefully we can do it all over again.’
