Cole Palmer hails ‘incredible’ chance to play alongside best friend Morgan Rogers for Chelsea

Cole Palmer said it was “incredible” to play at the highest level alongside his best friend Morgan Rogers after helping Chelsea open their Premier League campaign with a 3-2 victory at Fulham.

Palmer scored one goal and provided an assist as Chelsea held on to claim three points at Fulham’s home ground in a demanding opening-round fixture.

The result gave Chelsea an important start to the season, with Palmer highlighting the difficulty of beginning a campaign with an away match.

“The victory was very important,” Palmer told Sky Sports after the game. “Playing away from home at the start is always difficult, but we held on and managed to win.”

Palmer was particularly pleased to share the occasion with Rogers, describing the Chelsea player as his best friend. He said their partnership represented the fulfilment of something many people hope to experience.

“When you grow up, you see that playing or doing anything with your best friends is what you want, so playing with Rogers at the highest level in football is incredible,” Palmer added.

The England international also dismissed any doubts about his readiness for the new season, pointing to his performance against Fulham as evidence that he is prepared.

“How ready am I for the season? Didn’t you watch the game?” Palmer said. “I’m joking, I’m ready.”

He admitted that the previous campaign had been difficult because of injuries, but said he had used the summer to work harder and return in better condition.

“Last season was difficult because of injuries, but during the summer and since I returned I have worked extra hard,” he said. “Of course, with the injuries I suffered, I had to try to avoid them and work harder every day.”

Palmer said his confidence comes from a clear understanding of his own ability, allowing him to produce performances such as the one that helped Chelsea beat Fulham.

“I know the talent I have, so I can produce levels like this,” he said.

The 23-year-old also explained that he had taken time to recover mentally and physically during the summer. Palmer said he is not usually an emotional person and that those close to him know he does not tend to become overly concerned about matters in life.

However, he said the break had helped him regain his energy and approach the new campaign with renewed enthusiasm.

“Usually I’m not an emotional person, and the people who know me know that I don’t usually care too much about things in life,” Palmer said. “But during the summer I got some rest and recovered my energy, and now I’m ready and excited.”