Joleon Lescott hails Cole Palmer as 'an exceptional talent'

Joleon Lescott has hailed Cole Palmer as 'an exceptional talent' after the prospect found the net for Manchester City in their Super Cup success against Sevilla.

City were trailing 1-0 but Palmer equalised with a header in the 63rd minute following a cross from Rodri. After the game ended 1-1, City prevailed on penalties to lift the trophy.

It has been an encouraging start to the season for Palmer, who scored an excellent goal for City against Arsenal in the Community Shield.

Lescott admitted that Palmer still has some developing to do but stressed that he has much faith in the 21-year-old's ability.

The pair worked together as England Under-21s won the European Championship this summer, with Lescott part of the coaching setup.

Speaking on TNT Sports, Lescott said: 'The skill is something that is never going to be questioned. He's someone that is well respected within the world of football, when we were away there were a lot of players at big clubs with probably bigger reputations at this moment that knew how good Cole is and respected what he can bring to any team.

'We've seen that tonight. We spoke about gaining that experience, understanding when the ball's going to fall to the back post. He did that in the second half and scored a goal.'

'Like any young player you need to give them time and understand they're not going to get it right every time. Cole Palmer is not going to score every week.

'There are going to be opportunities when he needs to learn about failing and coming through that adversity and becoming a top professional to match his ability because once he moves those two things together there will be no stopping him because he's an exceptional talent.'

Rio Ferdinand praised Palmer's confidence and stated that the youngster's 'relaxed approach to the game' is an indication of the quality that he possesses.

Ferdinand said : 'One thing he isn't short of is confidence. Obviously him and Joleon have a good relationship, he walks out here, he jokes. During the warm-up I didn't look at any one as I was so focused on what I was doing, but he has a relaxed approach to the game that only certain individuals can do and he's doing it at the top level at a club that's competing for trophies.'

City are in need of extra options after Riyad Mahrez's departure to Al-Ahli and Lescott feels that Palmer is certainly capable of stepping up.

Lescott also stated that Palmer's recent displays mean that he certainly won't be leaving City on loan this summer.

Lescott: 'He definitely has the capability (to step up). The consistency's going to come with that because to be doing it at 21 at such a young age.

'There are massive shoes to fill with Riyad, he's contributed winning titles throughout his career, so I'm sure Cole wants to do that. There's been speculation of him leaving to get more minutes but after his recent performances I don't think he's going anywhere.'