Reggie Walsh reveals Chelsea role model who 'sees the game differently' | OneFootball

The 17-year-old is learning from the best

Palmer’s start to the season has been heavily disrupted by a recurring groin injury, but he has proven a shrewd signing since his September 2023 move from Manchester City and become Chelsea's primary source of goals.

A week later, he became the club’s youngest-ever starter when he got the nod in the second leg against the same opponents.

Role model: Reggie Walsh looks up to Cole Palmer

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Then, last month, he became the youngest player ever to represent Chelsea in the Champions League when, two days after his 17th birthday, he appeared off the bench in the 5-1 win over Ajax, and later agreed his first professional contract with the club in October.

In an interview for the club website, the Chelsea midfielder has now opened up about his style of play and his admiration for 23-year-old Palmer.

“I love being involved in the build-up and connecting the team,” Walsh said of his position. “Being a midfielder means you’re constantly in the game, whether it’s helping defend, creating chances or dictating the tempo.

“I enjoy receiving on the half-turn, driving forward and making things happen in the final third. That’s when I feel most natural. I’d say I’m a creative and intelligent midfielder, very technical with both feet. I like to receive on the turn, play forward and link up the play.

“I’m also confident driving with the ball and making things happen in the final third. Off the ball, I work hard to support defensively and always try to contribute with goals or assists when I can.”

Reggie Walsh signed his first professional deal in October

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Asked who in Enzo Maresca’s first team he looks up to, he said: “Cole Palmer, for sure. He’s just so creative and unpredictable. He sees the game differently and makes things happen out of nowhere.

“Watching him closely has been inspiring. He’s a player I try to learn from every time I see him play or train.”

He described his family as his biggest role models away from football.

“My whole family has sacrificed a lot for me to be in this position and I don’t take that for granted. It motivates me to give everything I’ve got every single day.”