Kobbie Mainoo has delivered an insight into what England teammate Cole Palmer is really like behind the scenes in training.
Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo, along with Chelsea’s Cole Palmer, are currently a hot topic for conversation with the England fanbase after Tuesday night. Both made positive contributions off the bench in England’s 0-0 draw with Slovenia.
Gareth Southgate’s side have ended up topping Group C at Euro 2024 to qualify for the last-16 stage, where their opponents are still undecided. But the Three Lions have hardly lit up the tournament so far by scoring just two goals in three group stage matches.
Palmer showed during his 20-minute cameo versus Slovenia why supporters have been crying out to see him. He finally got his first minutes of the summer tournament last night. In fairness, the 22-year-old came on to the pitch on the right wing and played several forward passes to inject a spark into the team.
Kobbie Mainoo talks about what Chelsea player is like in training
Mainoo, 19, was extremely positive about Palmer immediately after England’s draw against Slovenia. He even shared that the Chelsea attacker is frequently one of the best players in training with the national team. Apparently, he “never” doesn’t give 100 per cent.
When asked about Palmer in his post-match interview, Mainoo told ITV Football: “Everyone knows he’s electric. We’ve seen in the Premier League what he can do and he’s continuing that. I’m sure he will continue to do it in the next rounds as well.
“One of the best in training every day, he never lets off the gas and he’s always trying to score goals, always trying to get better. Like the rest of the lads are as well.”
Cole Palmer has now arrived at the Euros
The Chelsea Chronicle was baffled that Palmer didn’t play in either of England’s opening two group stage matches. However, he needed just 20 minutes against Slovenia to remind everyone of his ability.
There’s been a real issue for England so far at this tournament in creating chances and scoring goals. Fortunately, they’ve got someone like Palmer in reserve to switch it up. This is a player who scored 25 goals and made 15 assists in 45 Chelsea appearances across all competitions last season.
Whether it’s as a No 10 or right-winger, England should really be finding a space for him in the XI during Sunday’s last-16 fixture.