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Cole Palmer ended his long drought in style, scoring a big penalty to help Chelsea beat Liverpool 3-1 at Stamford Bridge. After the match, Palmer responded directly to the critics and social media trolls who targeted him during his recent dry spell.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Palmer ended his run of 13 league games without a goal by converting a stoppage-time penalty against Liverpool, the newly crowned league champions. This goal was Palmer’s first since January 14, a drought that lasted 1,162 minutes of Premier League football. Despite his struggles, Palmer delivered a standout performance, creating the most chances and leading Chelsea’s attack throughout the match. Speaking to Sky Sports, Palmer said, “No goals for months? I just felt normal. Obviously sh*# happens, you know what I mean.” He added that the criticism he faced online did not affect him, stating, “Social media nowadays is full of idiots, trolls… I don’t care about that.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
This victory keeps Chelsea fifth and strengthens their hopes of qualifying for next season’s Champions League. Palmer, signed from Manchester City for £42.5 million in September 2023, had an impressive start to life with the Blues, with 36 goals and 17 assists in his first 54 games. However, the young attacker went through a difficult spell with only two assists and no goals in his previous 12 matches. The pressure and criticism from supporters and social media almost overshadowed Palmer’s contributions – but his mental resilience has been key to his comeback.
WHAT NEXT FOR CHELSEA AND PALMER?
Chelsea’s win over Liverpool keeps them just two points behind fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur and four clear of sixth-placed Newcastle United with two league games remaining. Next, the Blues will face Nottingham Forest, who are fighting to avoid relegation and currently sit 17th in the table. Palmer’s return to form for Chelsea is crucial as they look to secure European football for next season. If Palmer continues to impress, Chelsea could leapfrog Spurs for an automatic Champions League spot, capping off a dramatic season turnaround.
