Cole Palmer has been out of the limelight having been left out of England’s World Cup, which has given him the opportunity to do a few more interviews.
Cole Palmer’s surprise omission from Thomas Tuchel’s England World Cup squad will come as a silver lining for Chelsea. Following a gruelling, injury-hit campaign, Palmer is finally getting his first tournament-free summer break in nearly four years.
This unexpected period of complete physical and mental rest heavily benefits incoming manager Xabi Alonso. Instead of returning to Cobham fatigued, Palmer can fully recharge, ensuring Alonso inherits a completely refreshed talisman ready to spearhead his new system from day one of pre-season.
However, the one thing that isn’t getting a rest during the summer break is his vocal cords.
What target are you setting Xabi Alonso in his first season as Chelsea manager?👀
Cole Palmer talks up Raheem Sterling’s influence
Speaking to ID, Cole Palmer picked Raheem Sterling as the surprise Chelsea player to have had the biggest influence on his career, despite being frozen out towards the end.
When asked who has had the biggest influence on his career at Chelsea, he replied, “Raheem Sterling.”
Palmer was post-Eden Hazard era, so for many who pick the Belgian, it wasn’t possible for Palmer, who never had the pleasure of playing with him at Stamford Bridge.
Cole Palmer and Raheem Sterling’s time together at Chelsea
Cole Palmer and Raheem Sterling shared a highly productive, if brief, partnership at Chelsea. Their chemistry was forged through an existing connection at Manchester City, allowing them to hit the ground running at Stamford Bridge.
During the 2023–24 season, the duo combined for 35 goals and 23 assists across all competitions.
One of their most iconic performances together came in a 4-4 draw against their former club, Manchester City, where both of them found the back of the net.
The pair played 48 times together in total, enjoying a points per game of 1.83 and eight joint goal contributions.
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