Mourinho hails Cole Palmer as phenomenal ahead of Chelsea reunion
Benfica head coach Jose Mourinho has branded Chelsea forward Cole Palmer a “phenomenal player” as he prepares for a Champions League reunion at Stamford Bridge.
Mourinho, who won three Premier League titles during two trophy-laden spells in charge of Chelsea, will lead Benfica to West London on matchday two of the Champions League.
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Palmer, however, will not feature due to a lingering groin injury picked up during the Club World Cup.
What Mourinho said
Despite the England international’s absence, Mourinho insisted Chelsea remain formidable opponents.
“I’m happy with that, he’s a phenomenal player. But I think they have a good team, in a way that if Cole Palmer doesn’t play it’s not a problem for them.
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If (Heorhiy) Sudakov doesn’t play or if (Vangelis) Pavlidis doesn’t play, I am in big trouble. But for Chelsea, no problem,” Mourinho told Mail Sport.
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Palmer has become a talismanic figure for Chelsea since his move from Manchester City, starring in their Club World Cup triumph and continuing his fine form in the Premier League.
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