‘Life under Liam is amazing’ – Palmer dismisses Chelsea exit talk
Cole Palmer has played down speculation linking him with a move away from Chelsea, insisting he is happy at the club after scoring a first-half hat-trick in the 3-1 win over Wolves at Molineux.
The England international was the standout performer as Chelsea eased past the Premier League’s bottom side, responding on the pitch after recent reports suggested he was unsettled in west London and keen on a return to the north of England.
Palmer opened the scoring from the penalty spot after Joao Pedro was fouled inside the area, sending goalkeeper Jose Sa the wrong way.
He doubled Chelsea’s lead minutes later with another spot-kick after Pedro was again brought down, before completing his hat-trick from open play with a powerful close-range finish following Marc Cucurella’s cutback.
Palmer addresses rumours
After the match, Palmer moved quickly to dismiss suggestions that he is unhappy at Chelsea or considering a transfer.
“Everyone loves to chat rubbish, don’t they? I don’t pay too much attention to it,” Palmer said on BBC’s Match of the Day.
“You see things. But I feel like I’ve come from a strong place anyway so I don’t pay attention to it.”
The 23-year-old celebrated his third goal by putting his hands over his ears, a gesture interpreted as a response to the speculation surrounding his future.
Palmer has been linked with a potential move to Manchester United, the club he supported growing up, following a season disrupted by injuries and inconsistent form.
Impact under new manager
Palmer has now scored four goals under head coach Liam Rosenior and says he is enjoying the freedom given to him in attack.
“Life under Liam is amazing, he gives us all confidence,” he said. “He lets us be ourselves, play free. I’m sure when I’m back proper fit, you’ll see the best of me.
“Him and all the staff give us all confidence on the training pitch, with his strategies, the way we play… I really like it.”
Chelsea’s win keeps them fifth in the Premier League table, just outside the top four, and within touching distance of the Champions League places.
With Palmer returning to form, the Blues will hope to maintain their form as they continue their push up the table.
