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Chelsea legend Ruud Gullit has warned Cole Palmer following his sensational first season at Stamford Bridge. The England international has been exceptional for the Blues since his £42.5 million move from Manchester City in the summer but Gullit has reminded the youngster that he needs to sustain his form.
Gullit labelled Palmer a 'gift' for his outstanding numbers in his debut season at Chelsea. The Dutchman defended the 21-year-old for his average showing against Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-final as the Blues lost 1-0 and reminded the fans that he is still very young.
The former Netherlands striker stressed that Palmer is still in his honeymoon period and will have to prove he is no one-season wonder. He said, as quoted by The Mirror:
"Palmer has fantastic numbers. He was a gift. He's come in this first year and played all the games, which is great because I like to watch him. I think he has huge potential, that's for sure. But he had a difficult time against Man City in the FA Cup semi-final. You forget he is still a kid."
Gullit added:
"He is young and he's been huge for Chelsea this season but this is his honeymoon period. Let's see how he does after that. Let's see what happens next year because there will be real pressure [to deliver again]. The team as a whole has to improve a lot next year too."
Palmer has been a shining light for Chelsea in an otherwise forgettable season and is in the running for the PFA Player of the Season award. He has scored 25 goals and provided 13 assists in 42 appearances across all competitions and is also the joint-top scorer in the Premier League with 20 goals.
Joe Cole backs Chelsea star to get better and better
Former Chelsea winger Joe Cole has likened Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher to former Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson. The three-time Premier League winner also insisted that the 24-year-old still has plenty of room for development.
Gallagher has been a key player for the Blues this season having scored five goals and provided eight assists in 43 appearances across all competitions. The academy product has often donned the armband as well and has been one of the Blues' better players.
Joe Cole acknowledged the growth Gallagher has had over the years and backed him to get even better. The former England international said:
"I liken him to Jordan Henderson, he has got better. And he has been influential in this team. Every year I have watched him play, he has got better. And he has been influential in this team."
Gallagher's future at Stamford Bridge remains up in the air despite his influential role in the team. His current deal expires in 2025 and there has been interest from clubs like Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United in the recent past.
