Chelsea attacker Cole Palmer hasn't been given too many minutes on the pitch by England manager Gareth Southgate at Euro 2024. But when the Blues star has been involved for the Three Lions - he's been exceptionally decisive and stood out amongst an all-star cast. Palmer should arguably start the Euros Final against notable outfit Spain, but that scenario is unlikely to transpire. Hopefully the 22-year-old will make another telling input from the substitute's bench when Southgate does use him.
Welcome. Let's talk Cole Palmer. That's the only language we speak on this website to be honest. There is always something positive to say after any game in which the playmaker/goalscorer has been involved. The latest encounter he featured in was England's Euro 2024 semifinal versus the Netherlands. And, once again, the outstanding Chels' man didn't disappoint.
Palmer's most recent telling involvement came via an assist for fellow sub' Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa. The striker was fed by an incisive ball from the CFC man. And it was far from the first occasion Palmer has come into a game and made a difference for the Three Lions in this tournament.
Calls for the ex-Manchester City starlet to be included from the beginning or to receive extra playing time have increased. To be fair to Southgate, he is being far more decisive due to prompter substitutions than in previous competitions. But don't expect anything radical like Palmer being in the lineup from kickoff for Sunday's auspicious fixture featuring such illustrious modern players.
Yes Palmer had a wild shot from a brilliant position when introduced against Holland. Though he has the coolness, confidence and ability to get himself into the most important of games and make the most purposeful of contributions. Setting up the winning goal on 90 minutes is some feat.
Who would Palmer replace in the XI? Well, that's what I'm saying: it won't happen. The new and improved wingback system equals even less space for Chelsea's forward. However, as was said of others before him - it feels as though he is ready.
Chelsea's star becomes international supersub
Maybe this all means Palmer is a perfect so-called 'supersub'. Is that the most suitable approach right now? When considering the England squad, its incredible starters and the Blue's inexperience at senior international level, you can understand Southgate's stance clearer.
Yet Palmer is six years older than 16-year-old Lamaine Yamal of the Spanish side; which is soon-to-be a five-year gap when Yamal turns age 17 in two days. Therefore we know much younger footballers can be a part of the team for the most important of matches.