Joleon Lescott heaped praise on Manchester City star Cole Palmer ahead of the UEFA Super Cup with Sevilla.
The winger has been handed a start this evening by Pep Guardiola.
Palmer’s future has been up in the air over the past couple of weeks.
The 21-year-old struggled for minutes last term.
But he did come on in the Community Shield against Arsenal and was seconds away from being a match-winner, after scoring a brilliant goal.
It has been suggested that Palmer could leave, in a bid to get more playing opportunities.
But with Kevin De Bruyne out injured and City seemingly having difficulty signing a replacement for Riyad Mahrez, perhaps he could end up staying put.
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Joleon Lescott hails Cole Palmer ahead of UEFA Super Cup
Palmer was spoken about ahead of tonight’s game, on TNT Sports.
Former City defender Lescott really piled on the praise, for a player he was worked with closely with the England U21s.
He said: “Exceptional talent. Loves the game. Can be seen to taking it a bit more relaxed. But his enthusiasm for the game and want to improve.
Asked by Rio Ferdinand if Palmer could become a regular in the City side, Lescott said: “I definitely think he has the capabilities at the young age of 21. Phil Foden wasn’t doing that so to expect any young player to do that in this team – it’s going to be hard. But to be in contention to play and contributing on a regular basis is an achievement in itself.”
A big night for Palmer
It’s a big night for Palmer in the context of his career.
Potentially, a top showing tonight could mean that he stays at the club.
Should he not really deliver, he could find himself moving on. There is definitely a decent level of interest in him.
If he wants to become a regular at the Etihad, he must take the opportunities when they come his way.