Jamie Carragher believes Cole Palmer should be in the running for Premier League player of the season after another Chelsea hat-trick.
The former Manchester City forward netted a stunning 16-minute treble for the Blues in their first-half rout of Everton. His first saw him skip around Jarrad Branthwaite and score with a clinical finish. He nodded home his second before lifting home a stunning lob to secure the matchball.
In analysing his performance, former Liverpool defender Carragher claimed Palmer should be in the conversation for Player of the Year. Taking to Twitter, he wrote: “Cole Palmer was nailed on for YPOTY, how close is he to POTY?!!”
Carragher’s praise continued at half-time. Speaking on Sky Sports, he said: “This lad has been sensational all season, one of the best players in the Premier League this season. I know it’s been a tough season, a really tough season for Chelsea.
“He megs Branthwaite, plays a little one-two with his partner Jackson. And opens his foot up and finds that far corner. When you’re talking about class and composure, this is brilliant.
"You can pick holes defensively in any goal, but this for me is absolutely sensational for as I said one of the best players in the Premier League.”
Gary Lineker was also full of praise. The Match of the Day host wrote on Twitter: “He’s exceptionally talented is Cole Palmer."
Palmer added to his evening’s work after the break by scoring his fourth from the penalty spot. The 21-year-old now has 25 goals in all competitions this season.
Is Cole Palmer the Premier League's best signing this season? Share your thoughts in the comments below
It is a stunning return following his big-money switch from Manchester City. His brilliant goalscoring return against the Toffees also saw him claim a number of brilliant records.
Palmer is now the first-ever Chelsea player to score in seven successive Premier League appearances at Stamford Bridge. The record was previously shared between Eidur Gudjohnsen and Didier Drogba - both players sitting at six.
Palmer’s treble against Everton also saw him become the first-ever Chelsea player to net two Premier League hat-tricks in the same season for the Blues. He also netted a hat-trick in the 4-3 win against Manchester United.
His fourth goal also ensured he was the first Blues star to score four in a Premier League game since Frank Lampard did the same in 2010. Palmer will be aiming to extend his stunning form in this weekend’s FA Cup semi-final against former club Manchester City.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.