Cole Palmer couldn’t conceal his reaction after receiving lavish praise from Roy Keane – and it shows the 22-year-old relishes in hearing positive feedback from former greats.
The Chelsea forward’s cameo off the bench was one of the few positives as England laboured to a tepid goal-less draw against Slovenia in their Group C finale at Euro 2024. Despite topping the section, there are calls for Gareth Southgate to make significant changes for Sunday’s last-16 clash against Slovakia following a trio of sub-standard performances.
Palmer, who produced some much-needed spark during his 20 minutes against Slovenia, is among those who could come into the side from the start. And the notoriously hard-to-please Keane is one of the pundits calling for the former Manchester City star to be named in the first XI.
After the game, Keane hailed Palmer's “X-factor” and dubbed him “an amazing player” whom he loves to watch. He added that Southgate will now be “under huge pressure” to start the 22-year-old.
Palmer, who's a boyhood Manchester United fan, broke into an adorable smile when told of Keane’s praise after the game – emotion we rarely see from 'Cold Palmer'. And he admitted: “It’s always nice to hear, especially from someone like Roy Keane who played internationally and at Manchester United.”
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After Gary Lineker was among the pundits to criticise England's stars over the past fortnight for their group stage displays, it shows how even the strongest personalities in the camp are not only listening carefully but can benefit from support of those they respect the most.
On the prospect of him starting against Slovakia, the reigning PFA Young Player of the Year added: “It’s up to the manager now what he wants to do. I’m full of belief.
“After the season I’ve had, I don’t see why I should be down. I’ll just try and take every chance and make an impact.”
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Cole Palmer after England's 0-0 draw with Slovenia (talkSPORT)Southgate made just one change for the Slovenia game, with Conor Gallagher replacing makeshift midfielder Trent Alexander-Arnold. The England boss was impressed with the impact of Palmer and fellow substitute Kobbie Mainoo, who came on for Gallagher at half-time.
“He [Palmer] showed what he’s been showing in training,” said Southgate. “With him and Kobbie, we had in our minds to get them into the game. They offer something different.
“[It's] Important that the players that come in realise they’re going to get opportunities if they keep training the way they’re training. They’re supporting the team brilliantly.
“We know we have some good options to be able to change games, which is crucial with the five substitutions especially.”
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