Enzo Maresca gives telling Cole Palmer verdict as he makes Mo Salah comparison
Enzo Maresca gives telling Cole Palmer verdict as he makes Mo Salah comparison
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Enzo Maresca said Cole Palmer can be Chelsea’s answer to Mohamed Salah as he compared the England international’s influence to that of Liverpool ’s talisman. The head coach reiterated his praise for Palmer’s display during Monday’s 3-1 victory over Wolves which ended a five-match winless run, in particular the way in which the 22-year-old took charge of a potentially hazardous situation to help his side see out a much-needed result.
Jitters descended around Stamford Bridge when goalkeeper Robert Sanchez blundered to gift the visitors an equaliser late in the first half, but after quickfire goals from Marc Cucurella and Noni Madueke had restored the lead, Palmer stepped up with an assured performance in midfield to install calm and ensure the win.
The recent winless streak reopened a conversation over the character of Maresca’s squad, which at just under 23 is on average the youngest in the Premier League, but former Manchester City forward Palmer – who is the team’s top scorer this season with 14 – has shown the clearest example of maturity blooming in the ranks.
“He is improving a lot but not just in terms of numbers of goals and assists,” said Maresca. “The second half against Wolves for me was one of the best moments since I arrived here. He was showing personality, he was asking for the ball in any moment that the team needed it. Liverpool when they have some (difficult) moment, Salah is asking for the ball. Arsenal when they have some problem, (Martin) Odegaard is asking for the ball.
