Soccer
Chelsea star Palmer declares himself 'hungry' after dominant display against Fulham
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Much of Chelsea's fate this season lies with the health and success of Cole Palmer, and things look very promising after their opening match in the 2026-27 Premier League.
The 24-year-old was involved in all three Chelsea goals as the Blues defeated Fulham 3-2 at Craven Cottage on Monday, closing the door on the opening round of matches for the new season in the English top flight.
Palmer assisted Joao Pedro's first-minute strike, started the move that led to Morgan Rogers' goal in the 41st minute, and then found the back of the net himself shortly after halftime as the Blues claimed victory over their neighbours to start the campaign on the right foot.
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"It's important," Palmer told Sky Sports moments after the final whistle. "[An] away game first is always tough but we dug in and got the win."
Chelsea's attack is built around the trio of Palmer, Pedro and Rogers, who joined the West London side in a big money move from Aston Villa this summer. New manager Xabi Alonso got to see his forwards hit the ground running on Monday, and for Palmer the performance was just the tip of the iceberg of what he hopes to achieve this season after a troublesome campaign in 2025-26.
Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
"It was a difficult season with injuries and whatnot but through the summer and since I've been back I've worked extra hard," he said. "Obviously with the injuries I've had to try and prevent them and work extra hard day in, day out.
"I know the talent I've got so I can put in performances like that."
That he was able to have such an impact on Day 1 of the new season was cathartic for Palmer, who admitted that missing out on a third of the last campaign had taken its toll and he's eager to put it behind him.
"Normally I'm not an emotional person," he said. "The people who know me know I'm not usually bothered about things in life, but over the summer I rested, I recharged and yeah I'm ready and I'm hungry."
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