Cole Palmer has backed Chelsea midfielder Romeo Lavia to become one of the best midfielders in the world.
Lavia joined Chelsea in a £58 million deal from Southampton in 2023 but made just one appearance last season due to multiple injuries.
The 21-year-old has also missed a significant portion of the current campaign and has started just 11 Premier League games under Enzo Maresca.
Palmer, however, is confident that Lavia’s ability will see him reach an elite level at Chelsea.
‘I think he’s one of the best midfielders I’ve played with, to be honest,’ Palmer told Sky Sports.
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‘Everyone hasn’t seen it because he’s been injured, obviously I knew him at [Manchester] City.
‘I think everyone will realise, I think he will be one of the best midfielders in the world.’
‘He’s been injured, hasn’t he? So it’s been difficult for him. But I think the games he has played this season you see what difference he’s made.
‘I think when he has a full season playing and staying fit I think everyone will realise.’
Meanwhile, Palmer believes Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal should already be regarded as the best player in the world.
The 17-year-old, who has 16 goals and 24 assists this season, has played an integral role in Barcelona’s campaign in which they are set to win the domestic treble.
‘I think he’s the best player in the world, to be honest,’ Palmer said.
‘Everything… I feel like everything they do just goes through him, just when you watch him… it’s mad.
‘You can just tell the way he plays that he’s confident, he’s got no fear, I love watching him.’
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