Cole Palmer 'could be another weapon' for England at Euro 2024, says Rio Ferdinand: 'Wonderful talent'

Rio Ferdinand has described Cole Palmer as a “wonderful talent” and believes the Chelsea forward could be a dark horse for England at Euro 2024.

Palmer swapped Manchester City for Chelsea in the summer and has established himself as a driving force in Mauricio Pochettino’s attack.

In what has been a poor season for Chelsea, Palmer has carried the baton with 22 goal involvements in the Premier League (14 goals, eight assists).

The 21-year-old’s approach to the game has caught the eye of Ferdinand, along with his “superb skill”.

“He is a wonderful talent,” Ferdinand said on TNT Sports to preview Chelsea’s clash with Manchester United. “He has been the centre of attention in a couple of WhatsApp groups I’m involved in.

“One of my friends likened him to a Chris Waddle-type player. He has superb skill, his balance is mesmeric, it’s phenomenal.”

Ferdinand was impressed with Palmer’s decision to walk away from City to chance his arm in London.

“It is a big jump to come from City to come here, in terms of his confidence and the belief this kid has in himself,” Ferdinand added. “He could have been safe and stayed at City and play some games and win trophies.

“He has come here, a bigger risk not knowing what to expect. He has 21 goal involvements.

“An absolutely wonderful talent.

“You have got to have the mindset and mentality to back up what you have at your feet. He has got that. He could walk into any environment and have the same attitude.

“He has come in and become the main focus of this team at such a young age, and it is wonderful to see.”

England boss Gareth Southgate has a host of bright attacking talents to call on, and Ferdinand feels Palmer could make an impact from the relative shadows at this summer European Championship.

“He is somebody that you look at with England,” Ferdinand said. “He is a great option.

“He is somebody that not everybody will know too much about on the European stage, international stage.

“He could be another weapon, internationally.”

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