Chelsea legend Florent Malouda has hailed Cole Palmer as one of the club’s best players for many years and believes the Blues need to strengthen their striker.
Chelsea have struggled this season, but Palmer has turned heads since joining from Manchester City last summer, scoring 16 goals in 27 Premier League games.
The 21-year-old made his debut for England against Malta at Wembley in November and his form has seen him named in Gareth Southgate’s final squad for this summer’s European Championship.
Palmer has been Chelsea’s standout player this season and the Blues have at times relied on the former City man to single-handedly win games this season.
Former Blue player Malouda believes Palmer is one of Chelsea’s best players for many years.
“I’ve been really impressed with Cole Palmer this season. He is certainly one of the best players Chelsea have had in a long time,” he told Gambling Zone.
“He’s a very talented and skilled player, but what impresses me about him is his soccer IQ and maturity. He’s a very mature player.
It shows in his celebrations, he’s cold. ”
The Frenchman believes Chelsea have not had a player to build a team around for a long time and believes Palmer is just such a player.
Chelsea must plan to build around Palmer for years to come. “It’s been a long time since Chelsea had a player to build a team around,” he added.
“I think this is the way forward and Cole Palmer is the future of Chelsea.
“I’m also looking forward to watching him play for the national team because I can see that he’s confident in his abilities, he’s ambitious and he has his own style.
“He’s a unique player. You can’t compare him to anyone else.”
Manager Mauricio Pochettino will be hoping Palmer can inspire Chelsea to
victory against Everton at Stamford Bridge tonight as they look to close the gap on Europa League spots.
