John Stones has praised England teammate Cole Palmer after his performance at Euro 2024 on Tuesday night, but thinks the Chelsea star will be annoyed at one thing.
England defender John Stones thinks the substitutes made a great impact in yesterday’s 0-0 draw against Slovenia. The Three Lions subbed on Cole Palmer, Kobbie Mainoo, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Anthony Gordon during various stages of the Euros match.
England secured top spot in Group C with their goalless draw with Slovenia. There’s certainly unrest within the fanbase about how the national side have been performing so far at the tournament, but they’re now in a position where they can try go through the gears in the knockout rounds. Next, they’ve got a last-16 tie on Sunday evening against an opponent that’s still undecided.
How Group C finished
Palmer, 22, played his first minutes at a major senior international tournament when he entered the action for the final 20 minutes against Slovenia. He’s got plenty of people discussing him after that really bright cameo, too.
John Stones explains why Chelsea star will be annoyed
Stones, who previously played with Palmer at Manchester City, hailed the young attacker for his England cameo at the Euros.
Interestingly, he thinks that Palmer will leave the field a little bit frustrated. That’s because the Chelsea playmaker had a chance to score a light when in goal, but his shot with his favourite left foot went straight at the goalkeeper.
“[The subs] made a great impact today, credit to them,” Stones said, as quoted by England’s official website.
“It’s not easy coming away and not getting as much game time as they want and coming on with the attitude they have in training.
“It’s a great spirit around us and to come in and especially Cole [Palmer], created some great chances for us. He had one at the end that I’m sure he’ll be frustrated that he didn’t do better.”
Cole Palmer nailed his audition
Apart from a shot at goal that just lacked precision, Palmer couldn’t have done much more with his brief stint on the pitch against Slovenia. He passed in-between the lines and looked a threat on the right wing.
Surely, he’s given England boss Gareth Southgate plenty to ponder when it comes to his team selection for the last-16 showdown.
There’s been a real lack of intent in England’s forward play during the three group stage matches, but you can be sure that Palmer will bring an attacking edge when he’s on the field. Most importantly, he’s direct, intelligent and raring to go.