Joleon Lescott says Chelsea ‘could rise to the occasion’ in FA Cup final | OneFootball

Former Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott believes City are the favourites going into the FA Cup final against Chelsea, but that the Blues could rise to the occasion.

Lescott, speaking exclusively to Hayters ahead of TNT’s coverage of the FA Cup final, said that the form of both teams going into the game means City are definitely the favourites, but Calum McFarlane managed a 1-1 draw against Pep Guardiola during his first interim spell in charge in January.

Asked to give his thoughts on the game, Lescott said: “Not just because I’m affiliated with the club, but I think the form of the two teams and the way they’re both performing at the minute, it would make City favourites in that game.

“But like you get with top players, which Chelsea do have, they rise to the occasion. They have a reference of beating or playing well against City early in the season. So, I’m sure that they’ll be using that to try and get a positive outcome.”

Chelsea will be hoping for a standout performance from star player Cole Palmer, but he has had a difficult 12 months both with injury and poor form.

Asked what has happened to Palmer, Lescott said: “He’s played, I think it’s a few summers now with the Euros, England and the under-21’s. I think it might be three years he hasn’t had a break. 

“So, yeah, that may be the impact on his body in regard to being injured this season. But he’s someone I’m a massive fan of as a football fan. I enjoy watching Cole Palmer. He’s passionate about the game and the way he plays with the freedom and the quality and the skill.

“But yeah, this season has been difficult due to the injuries and inconsistencies in terms of the run of form and the run of games. But I’m sure once he’s healthy, we’ll see the best of Cole Palmer again.”