Ex-PL striker Darren Bent thinks that Cole Palmer is the most important player for Chelsea at the moment.
Darren Bent with high praise for Cole Palmer
Following Chelsea‘s 1-0 win over Benfica, former PL forward Darren Ben picked a player who is very vital for the West London side.
The Blues walked away with all three points on the special night of Jose Mourinho’s return to Stamford Bridge. The performance from Enzo Maresca’s men was far from convincing. This might have happened due to the absence of a key player, as per Bent.
Chelsea made sure they held on to the score line following an own goal from Richard Rios. But, the PL side were finding it tough to create any chances going forward.
Speaking on talkSPORT, Bent said that Cole Palmer’s absence in the team led to the Blues’ struggles to create good chances in the attack.
Midfielder’s comparisons with Van Dijk
Cole Palmer is not the sort of player to tear up the league with mind-blowing stats. Nevertheless, he has an effect on every area of Chelsea’s offensive play. He links midfield to attack, creates space, and provides tactical insights that the Blues lack when he is injured.
Bent also made comparisons between Palmer and Van Dijk. The former striker believes Cole Palmer is as crucial to Chelsea as Virgil van Dijk is to Liverpool His comments are not just focused on defensive contributions, it is about being the backbone of the unit.
For Liverpool, Van Dijk organizes, drives, and general plays from the back for Liverpool. Palmer is Chelsea’s engine, so having him back could be exactly what they need to turn quality losses into comfortable wins.
Author’s Opinion:
Cole Palmer is one of those players who, when you observe him, you experience him more than see him. Chelsea’s results might be unaffected when he is not present, but the real difference can be felt when he plays.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
