Cole Palmer hails sixth-place achievement for Chelsea

Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer has emphasised the significance of the club’s climb to sixth position on the Premier League table, following their 2-1 victory over Brighton.

The London side through Palmer and Nkuku gave the team a comfortable lead before a cynical move from Reece James reduced Chelsea to 10 men.

Brighton later pulled one back through Danny Welbeck but it wasn’t enough to salvage a point for the Seagulls who mounted massive [pressure on Chelsea in the final moments of the game.

The Blues’ recent win propelled them to sixth place in the Premier League standings, positioning them to secure European qualification if they secure at least a point against Bournemouth in their final game on Sunday.

Palmer, who contributed to Chelsea’s victory with his 22nd goal of the season, highlighted the importance of European qualification for the club, considering their challenging campaign.

“For it to be in our hands to get sixth place is a big thing for us,” expressed Palmer. “Chelsea are a big club, and everyone wants to finish higher than sixth, but you have to look at where we were at the start of the season.”

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Acknowledging the team’s turnaround under manager Mauricio Pochettino, Palmer praised the collective effort and unity among the players.

“To get back into Europe would be a step in the right direction. All credit to the manager. All the players love the manager and want to fight for him,” added the 22-year-old midfielder.

Palmer’s remarkable contribution of 22 goals and 10 assists in 32 Premier League matches has been instrumental in Chelsea’s resurgence, surpassing the personal best tally set by Eden Hazard in the 2018/19 season.

With a potential opportunity to finish fifth if Tottenham Hotspur falter in their final match, Chelsea aim to secure European football next season, marking a significant achievement amid a challenging season under manager Pochettino.