Paul Winstanley has been discussing the ability and impact of Chelsea talisman Cole Palmer at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea's co-sporting directors, Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley, have come under real scrutiny at times for some of their transfer activity at the club. However, they can be proud of their part in bringing Cole Palmer to the Blues from Manchester City in the summer of 2023.

Palmer, 22, has emerged as a superstar in the Chelsea squad within the last year. His record of 31 goals and 20 assists in 54 club appearances since joining speaks for itself.

Also, Palmer was recently crowned England Player of the Year, becoming the first Blues player since Ashley Cole in 2010 to win the individual prize.

When asked if Palmer can one day win the Ballon d'Or award, Winstanley said: "No doubt he can, no doubt. He's got a bit of maverick personality on the pitch, you can see that. You can see it in training, you can see it in the games. He's got that ability."

Best Chelsea player since Eden Hazard We'd argue that Palmer is Chelsea's most special talent since Eden Hazard.

There were plenty of times when the Blues leaned on Belgian attacker Hazard for individual brilliance, something we've spotted with youngster Palmer as well.

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Hazard, who's now retired, regularly got Chelsea fans off their seats and was capable of match-winning performances against anyone. It's such a massive compliment to say that Palmer is giving off a similar aura.

The decision for Chelsea to sign Palmer for PS40m (Sky Sports) last year from Man City goes down as a masterstroke.