Cole Palmer hit back at ‘social media idiots’ on Sunday, ending a 13-game goal drought with a stoppage-time penalty in Chelsea’s 3–1 victory over Liverpool.
The 21-year-old has been under the spotlight in recent weeks after a red-hot start to life at Chelsea began to cool. But against Liverpool, he reminded everyone why the Blues paid 42.5 million pounds to bring him in from Manchester City last September.
Enzo Fernández got things rolling with a clinical finish, and the Blues doubled their lead just after the break when Jarell Quansah turned the ball into his own net. Virgil van Dijk pulled one back for the visitors, but Palmer settled things from the spot in added time to keep Chelsea’s push for a European place alive.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the final whistle, Palmer didn’t hold back.
“We played very well as a team. They’re champions for a reason, but we showed desire,” he said. “I just felt normal. I went three months without scoring, but that just gives me more fight to do more for myself and for the team.”
Palmer also addressed the criticism he’s received during his dry spell, particularly on social media.
“Social media nowadays is full of idiots. I don’t pay attention to that. I’ve scored today and I’m happy, but it’s only one – I’ve got to keep improving and reach new levels,” said Palmer.
Palmer had scored 36 goals and assisted 17 in his first 54 appearances for Chelsea, but had struggled for end product in recent weeks, managing just two assists across 12 games before Sunday.
“When you’re not scoring, it feels like you’re letting the team down,” he added. “But I feel mentally strong. I take pride in helping the team – if I’m not doing that, I’m not happy.”
On the other side, Liverpool boss Arne Slot – whose side had already secured the league title – made six changes to his starting XI but insisted there was no dip in effort.
“For many things, I didn’t see a drop-off,” Slot said. “We came back after being 2–0 down and didn’t give up. But as I’ve said before, margins are small. A few percentages were missing in some moments.”
The win sees Chelsea climb to fifth in the table, with two games left to secure a spot in next season’s European competitions.
