Mauricio Pochettino could throw Cole Palmer into the deep end when Chelsea lock horns with Nottingham Forest on Saturday afternoon
Cole Palmer has told Mauricio Pochettino the two positions which suit him best after signing for Chelsea. The 21-year-old emerged as a target for the Blues earlier this week as Pochettino looked to sign an attacking midfielder, who can also operate as a right-winger, before the summer transfer window slammed shut.
Chelsea have now managed to tie Palmer down to a long-term deal at Stamford Bridge, and he looks set to play a major role in the starting lineup for years to come. In his first interview with the club website as a Blue, the England Under-21 international revealed his two favourite positions on the pitch – as well as two more wildcard options.
"I played left-back when I was Under-10," said Palmer. "Then I played midfield. Then later right wing, left wing, and striker. I made my first start at City as a striker. So I have played all along the frontline, but right wing and no.10 are my best two positions, I would say.
"I played 10 most of the time in the academy, and in the past three years I’ve mainly played on the right wing. But I’m ready to help the team wherever I’m needed."
With Palmer available for selection on Saturday afternoon when Chelsea welcome Nottingham Forest to Stamford Bridge, Palmer is expected to slot into the 'Christopher Nkunku role'. The former RB Leipzig star was dealt a blow to his knee against Borussia Dortmund during the Blues' final pre-season clash.
Nkunku has since undergone an operation and he's expected to be out of action for several months. With Raheem Sterling impressing on the right and Noni Madueke making his return from the treatment room, Palmer looks set to be ushered into the No.10 role.
The new Chelsea signing could reignite an exciting relationship on the pitch with Sterling following their time together at City. Palmer said: "Raz has always looked after me, so I appreciate him.
"He was one when I was coming through at Man City who put his arm around me. That was amazing for me, for someone of his pedigree and international experience to do that.
"He saw the potential I had. He saw what I was doing in training. We started talking a bit more. I was asking him questions all the time and from there we have always kept in contact.
"I’ve played with him in games a few times, not loads, and now I’ve developed my game a bit more, hopefully we can do some good stuff together."