Cole Palmer’s reputation continued to soar following a remarkable four-goal performance against Everton, bolstering Chelsea’s chances of securing a spot in European competition.
The recent acquisition from Manchester City achieved a flawless hat-trick within the first 30 minutes and capped off his impressive outing with a penalty goal after the break.
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Palmer now trails Erling Haaland by just one goal in the pursuit of the Golden Boot. Notably, he has surpassed Kai Havertz’s Premier League goal tally for Chelsea, netting 20 goals in 64 fewer games than Havertz, whom he succeeded at Stamford Bridge.
‘It all happened so fast in the first 30 minutes,’ said Palmer afterwards, reflecting on another man of the match display.
‘We started well and to score a hat-trick, I’m buzzing. I think the team needed that after last Sunday and some previous games. We did well tonight. It was a great game for the team and me.
‘We needed to come out and show something and I think from the first minute we showed what we could do. It was a good performance tonight. We’re really happy with the win.
‘To make the decision to come to Chelsea was a big one for me and my family, but I just wanted to play football. I’m thankful to Chelsea for the opportunity and I’m buzzing.’
When asked which strike from the four was his favourite, the 21-year-old added: ‘I think my first one was my favourite,’ he replied. ‘My right-footed goal was a bit of a swinger, but my first one was probably my favourite.
‘As an attacker, you always want to help the team with goals and assists, but my main focus was playing well and trying to get into the positions to score goals.’
Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino, meanwhile, was full of praise for Palmer’s latest goalscoring exploits.
‘The impact on the team was amazing from day one,’ said Pochettino.
‘We always expect the best with everyone we sign, so it has not surprised us. He was always the player with the capacity to score goals, even in Manchester City.
‘But the way he adapted himself and the way he is playing and performing is fantastic. It is amazing for the team, amazing for him, and shows that the club made the right decision by signing him.’
