'I didn't really watch him' - Chelsea star Cole Palmer reacts to being compared to Arsenal legend Dennis Bergkamp following four-goal showing in Brighton victory

The 22-year-old forward became the first player to score four goals in the first half of a match, an incredible feat that left fans and pundits in awe. Palmer’s explosive form has seen him net six goals in as many league games this season, solidifying his position as one of the brightest young talents in English football.

Following Palmer’s dazzling display, former England and Arsenal star Theo Walcott couldn’t help but draw parallels between the young Chelsea forward and two of the Premier League’s finest strikers—Dennis Bergkamp and Robin van Persie.

Walcott praised Palmer’s style, remarking, “He has got a bit of finesse, Bergkamp, Van Persie about him, and they weren't bad at all. He has grown into his own at Chelsea and he is the main man. You can't leave him out of any team, and I am talking about England too. He is so gifted, he will have that awe around him so that players are afraid of him. If he continues like this, he going to be a legend of the Premier League."

Bergkamp, revered as one of the most skilful forwards in Premier League history, amassed 87 goals and 94 assists over 315 league appearances for Arsenal. Whereas, Van Persie, on the other hand, rose to prominence with Arsenal before sealing his legacy by leading Manchester United to a league title in the 2012-13 season.

In response to the Bergkamp comparisons, Palmer admitted, “I know he is a legend in the Premier League, but I didn’t really watch him. I was too young. I have seen clips, he was a top player so thank you, Theo Walcott!”

Palmer netted the fastest hat-trick in Chelsea's Premier League history, scoring three goals in just nine minutes and 48 seconds. He completed his four goals in a remarkable 19-minute and 57-second spell - and now remains only behind Jermain Defoe, who scored four goals in 2009 for Tottenham against Wigan, in a lesser time.

Palmer will look to continue his strong start to the season when Chelsea face Belgian side Gent in the UEFA Conference League next Thursday.