Cole Palmer stars in lacklustre England draw against Slovenia
Chelsea attacker Cole Palmer finally got his first minutes at the 2024 European Championship today and delivered a fine performance as England secured the top spot in their group following a 0-0 draw with Slovenia.
England manager Gareth Southgate had left Palmer as an unused substitute in the first two group games against Serbia and Denmark.
However, with the Three Lions looking blunt in attack against Slovenia, Southgate turned to the 22-year-old to spark the game to life.
Palmer came on in the 70th minute and brought more intent. He was looking to open gaps in Slovenia’s backline, making the riskier passes and trying to take the game to the opponents.
The former Manchester City man took the initiative, grabbing the bull by the horns as England sought a late winner.
England had been toothless for most of the first half, but Palmer breathed life into the attack, buzzing about like a man on a mission.
While he did not score or create any clear-cut openings, he sent a message to the manager that he is a potent option that should be utilised more.
Palmer is coming off the back of a terrific campaign for Chelsea and should be getting more minutes in this England side in the knockout stages.
With England looking to add some much-needed attacking threat, Palmer’s hunger and creativity can be the difference as they chase Euro 2024 glory.
However, while Palmer dazzled in his short cameo, another Chelsea man looked painfully out of depth.
Conor Gallagher replaced Trent Alexander-Arnold in the starting XI but had an unremarkable 45 minutes before he was hooked for Kobbie Mainoo at half-time.
The 24-year-old brought his swashbuckling energy to the centre but failed to control the game.
Gallagher’s showing was unconvincing, and the Cobham academy graduate could find himself back on the bench for the next round of games.