Chelsea forward Cole Palmer frankly stated “s*** happens” after scoring a penalty in his team`s 3-1 victory over Liverpool.
The 22-year-old England international ended an 18-game streak without a goal by converting from the spot in stoppage time against the recently crowned league champions.
Following Chelsea`s successful outing, Palmer spoke with Sky Sports reporter Patrick Davison. During the interview, the young attacker criticised those who had been negative towards him online and emphasised his mental fortitude.
Palmer said:
We played very well as a team. They are champions for a reason, but I thought we showed desire, good fight, and we troubled them at times.
I felt normal standing over the penalty. Things happen; I went three months without scoring, but it motivates me more to do well not just for myself, but for my team.
Social media today is full of ignorant people, so I pay no attention to it.
To score today makes me happy, but I have to keep improving and aim for new levels.
If you`re getting chances and not scoring… ultimately, you`re letting your team down.
I feel like I`m mentally strong regardless, so whatever people say doesn`t affect me. I`ve experienced it my whole life.
I take pride in helping the team, and if I`m not doing that, I`m not satisfied.
Today, I felt like myself. I was confident, trying things, playing first-time passes, pushing forward, playing freely, and having [Moises Caicedo] beside you is a dream.
After the interview concluded, Sky Sports presenter Kelly Cates apologised to viewers for Palmer`s use of strong language.
Daniel Sturridge, a former Chelsea and Manchester City player, defended Palmer`s post-match comments while working as a pundit for Sky Sports.
The former England striker commented:
I appreciate how much he cares. When he gives interviews, he`s open about his feelings.
You can see how much passion he has for football. It`s not about what anyone else thinks; it`s about his own perspective. When you set such high standards and don`t meet them, it hurts. I`ve been in that situation.
When you play for a big club, there will always be critics, but I liked that he isn`t bothered by it.
Some things on social media might sneak through, people might send quick negative messages, but the best thing is to focus on being the best you can be. He is very proud of that.
His teammates also understand how hard he works. He`s an incredible player, and all top players worldwide face difficult periods.
Form is Temporary, Class is Permanent
Jamie Redknapp added his thoughts:
We always recognise that form is temporary and class is permanent. He is too talented to be affected for a long time.
You could see it today; he was full of confidence. He played with genuine freedom and was clearly enjoying his performance.
Earlier in the match, Chelsea took an early lead in the third minute thanks to an goal from the in-form Enzo Fernandez.
A Jarell Quansah own goal doubled Chelsea`s lead in the 56th minute, although Virgil van Dijk managed to score a consolation goal for Liverpool later on.
Following Quansah`s foul on Caicedo inside the box in stoppage time, Palmer successfully converted the penalty to seal the win and end his personal goal drought.
