LONDON — Chelsea’s dynamic playmaker, Cole Palmer, called out his detractors on social media, labeling them as “idiots” and “trolls” following his crucial goal in the 3-1 victory over Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday. Palmer’s goal, a penalty converted during stoppage time, marked the end of an 18-game goal drought that had persisted since January 14.
Expressing his feelings post-match, the England international said, “Obviously I went, what, three months without scoring, but it just gives me more fight and motivation to do well, not just for myself but for my team.” His remarks were a direct rebuff to the online criticism directed at him during his scoreless streak.
“Social media nowadays is full of idiots, basically. The trolls and whatever. I don’t pay any attention to that,” Palmer added. He emphasized his satisfaction with Sunday’s goal but underscored the need for ongoing improvement, stating, “To score today, I’m happy, but it’s only one, and I’ve got to keep improving and try to reach new levels.”
Palmer reflected on the frustration of missing scoring opportunities during his barren run and its impact on his sense of responsibility to the team. He confessed, “You’re letting your team down at the end of the day. Personally, I feel like I am mentally strong anyway. Whatever people say doesn’t bother me. I’ve had it all my life growing up, so I don’t really care.”
His sense of duty to support his team is apparent as he remarked, “But I feel pride helping the team and if I’m not doing that, obviously I’m not happy.”
Last season, Palmer had an outstanding performance, scoring 22 Premier League goals during his debut season with Chelsea after transferring from Manchester City, placing him second on the league’s scoring chart behind City’s Erling Haaland. Currently, in this campaign, Palmer has netted 15 goals as he continues to strive for excellence.