Chelsea star Cole Palmer bites back at 'idiots' who criticised him in X-rated rant after snapping 18-game scoreless streak in win over Liverpool

Chelsea’s push for a top-four finish received a massive boost on Saturday night as they overcame Liverpool 3-1 at Stamford Bridge, a victory that also saw Palmer finally end his prolonged goal drought. The Blues secured all three points thanks to strikes from Enzo Fernandez, a 56th-minute own goal by Jarell Quansah and a stoppage-time penalty from Palmer.

Palmer joined Chelsea from Manchester City in September 2023 for a fee of £42.5 million and made an instant impression with an explosive start to life in west London. In his first 54 matches for the Blues, he notched an impressive 36 goals and 17 assists, instantly becoming a fan favourite and key attacking outlet. However, his recent form dipped significantly, and he had gone 18 games in all competitions without scoring before the Liverpool clash. Despite the dry spell, Palmer maintained that his confidence never wavered and instead hit back at his critics who called him out during his rough spell.

Following the final whistle, Palmer made his feelings clear to Sky Sports and said: "We played very well as a team. They're champions for a reason, but we showed desire. I just felt normal. Sh*t happens... sorry for my language. Obviously it happens, I went three months without scoring, but it just gives me more fight and motivation to do more for myself and for the team.

"Social media nowadays is full of idiots. I don't pay any attention to that. I've scored today and I'm happy, but it's only one and I've got to keep improving and try and reach new levels. Getting chances and not scoring, it feels like you're letting your team down. I feel like I am mentally strong anyway. I feel pride in helping the team and if I'm not doing that, I'm not happy."

With the win, Chelsea now sit fifth in the Premier League standings and remain firmly in the race for Champions League qualification. The fixture list doesn’t ease up for the Blues, who now turn their attention to European competition. Chelsea will now be preparing for the second leg of their Europa Conference League semi-final against Swedish side Djurgarden. Holding a commanding 4-1 lead from the first leg, Enzo Maresca's squad are strong favourites to reach the final.