Xabi Alonso has reportedly been impressed by Cole Palmer’s fitness and hunger during Chelsea’s pre-season, with the 24-year-old also emerging as an important figure for the club’s younger players.
Palmer returned to Chelsea this summer after a rare extended break and has been building towards the new Premier League season during Alonso’s first pre-season in charge.
BBC Sport reports that Alonso has been impressed by the England international since his return, particularly his physical condition and desire during the tour.
That assessment has also been reflected in the responsibility being given to Palmer within a Chelsea squad containing several teenagers and young players.
Cole Palmer taking on Chelsea leadership role
Alonso had already made his expectations for Palmer clear earlier in pre-season.
Speaking during the Australia leg of the tour, the Chelsea head coach said Palmer was going to be a “leader on the pitch”.
Alonso praised Palmer’s mentality and willingness to discuss football, adding that having a full pre-season would be important after an interrupted previous campaign.
The latest insight from inside Chelsea suggests that leadership has also been visible away from matches, with Palmer interacting closely with younger members of Alonso’s travelling squad.
Chelsea have taken several academy players on tour, including 16-year-old Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli, while Alonso has regularly given his younger players significant minutes.
Palmer returned to the starting side for Saturday’s 3-0 victory over AC Milan after missing the Juventus game with a minor fitness issue.
ReadChelsea’s match report detailed how Palmer operated in one of the attacking positions behind the striker as Alonso switched to a 3-4-2-1 system.
Chelsea now return to Cobham following the conclusion of their tour, giving Alonso another two weeks to prepare his squad for the start of the Premier League campaign.
Palmer’s attacking quality has rarely been in doubt.
His growing influence within Alonso’s young squad could prove just as important.
