Cole Palmer: Chelsea player a ‘reason why people pay’ to watch football

Aside from perhaps the purists, football fans don’t go to a match to watch zonal marking or a low defensive block.

They go to be entertained, to see goals and to witness moments of magic. They go to watch players like Cole Palmer.

“It is the reason why people pay,” said Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca after yet another eye-catching display by Palmer in Sunday’s 2-1 win against Newcastle.

“They want to see that kind of player and we are very happy to have him here.”

The England forward scored what proved to be the winner to continue his excellent form this season.

This was his seventh goal in nine Premier League games, but it wasn’t just his finish – as nice as it was – that gained the 22-year-old yet more praise.

Instead, it was an incredible 60-yard pass from inside his own half that sent Pedro Neto away down the flank to provide the assist for Nicolas Jackson’s first-half opener.

Alan Smith, co-commentating on the game for Sky Sports, declared it “the pass of the season”, but those analysing in the studio at half-time went one further.

“‘This pass over 60 yards, I mean, that’s one of the best passes I’ve seen, never mind this season, but in the Premier League,” gushed former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher.

“Taking two or three Newcastle players out and then just on a plate for Neto.”

Former Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane added: “I love watching this kid.

“Even his awareness when he receives the ball, he knows exactly what’s happening but then to execute the pass… perfect pass, you just run and he’s going to pick you out.”