Chelsea’s summer acquisition, Cole Palmer is already reaping the rewards of his surprise move from Premier League champions Manchester City.
With four goals and as many assists in his 11 appearances for the club, the 21-year-old forward, who recently earned his first England call-up, says that the decision to join Chelsea has been pivotal for his career as it provides him with regular game time.
“It happened fast, to be fair,” Palmer, referring to his move said at a press conference ahead of England’s final two Euro 2024 qualifiers.
“I spoke to someone at Chelsea and I was speaking to my dad, but I really didn’t know what to do.
“I was just thinking about it for a couple of days, like near enough every minute of the day.
“But then I just thought for my career and stuff I have to go and try and get regular game time.
“It was a big move for me. I’d never been out of Manchester, not even on loan or anything like that, so to move down there on my own was a big thing.
“Who knows what would have happened if I had stayed. Maybe I would have played more, maybe not. But I think the decision that I made to go to Chelsea so far is paying off.”
Palmer also expressed his gratitude for working with Mauricio Pochettino who he praises for his support for young players and granting him the freedom to utilize his strengths on the pitch.
As he prepares for his potential England debut against Malta, Palmer reflects on the swift and beneficial impact of his move to Stamford Bridge.
“A lot of people told me how he is with young players,” Palmer said of Pochettino.
“Ever since I went to Chelsea I can see it, so I’m enjoying working with him and excited to carry on working with him.
“He has given me the confidence and licence to go where I want on the pitch, where I feel I can use my strengths, so I’m grateful for it.”
