One of England’s coaches has revealed Palmer’s true attitude (Image: Getty)
England coach Joleon Lescott has delved into Chelsea star Cole Palmer’s “carefree” attitude behind closed doors. Having worked with the national side and Palmer at Under-21s level, former Wolves, Everton and defender Lescott has become well acquainted with the starlet.
The easy-going talent, who netted England’s leveller in the final of Euro 2024 and bagged four goals in one half last weekend, is now regarded as one of the brightest stars in world football – having also won the PFA Young Player of the Year award last season.
Palmer’s relaxed, dynamic attitude on the pitch has now been confirmed as his off-field mindset too, as Lescott’s revealed all about the 22-year-old’s true demeanour.
When appearing on Ferdinand’s ‘Rio Presents’ show, Lescott, who has become one of England interim boss Lee Carsley’s assistant coaches, was quizzed about Palmer’s behaviour and confirmed questions about his laid-back nature.
“He is a little bit carefree, as in he cares as much as everyone but doesn’t care what everyone thinks,” Lescott replied. “That’s the balance he’s got, and I think that’s the beautiful thing with Cole.
“He cares as much as anyone, but then he doesn’t care that you like it. He cares that it’s the right thing to do in the moment. I don’t know how you create that as an individual or through a team or squad.
“But Cole, like, I’ve said this numerous times. I’m just gutted that this group of players – we’ve seen it before, the Euros – if that was on TV, you lot wouldn’t be surprised with what Cole’s doing. They have a belief and a want to be the best, but also not care.”
Lescott worked closely with Palmer at under-21 level (Image: Getty)
Asked what the Blues star’s best attribute is, Lescott cited his versatility and love for possessing the ball as that key edge that has seen Palmer prosper.
“His ability to receive anywhere,” added Lescott. “Like, you have tens that can receive it, but then don’t get it on the edge of our box when the consequences are deeper and if you lose it here… Give it him [Palmer] there.
“We played a game against Germany for the 21s in the Euros. He played as a pivot. The German coach said to me at a time: ‘I’ve never seen an England team play like that.’
“He was just like, give me the ball. But then we’re out of possession, and he’s running back and doing that because he knows: ‘The faster I get it back, the faster I get it.’
Palmer continues to be a talismanic figure for Chelsea (Image: Getty)
“That’s his mindset: ‘I just want the ball.’ He’d just go and get it anywhere, all of a sudden… Especially when you receive it on the edge of your box. He just loves it.”
Not every aspect of Palmer’s game is perfect yet, however, as Lescott did point out something for the talent to work on as he develops.
“That’s one thing he’s probably got to develop: robustness. His body. These are probably the most games he’s playing in a row and at the highest level.”
Palmer is set to be an important figure in Carsley’s England team for their Nations League games against Greece and Finland next week.