Cole Palmer didn’t hesitate when naming his footballing idol who played for one of Chelsea’s biggest rivals

Chelsea star Cole Palmer has revealed the shock Premier League player that he idolised growing up.

Since leaving former club Manchester City to join rivals Chelsea in September 2023, Palmer has established himself as one of the best player in the Premier League.

The 22-year-old has already established himself as Chelsea legend, having scored an incredible 39 goals and registered 21 assists in just 70 appearances for the club.

However, Palmer may have recently hurt his reputation among Chelsea fans after he named a historic rival as his Premier League idol.

Throughout the club's 120 year history, some of the very best players ever to come to England have worn a Chelsea shirt.

Frank Lampard, Dider Drogba, Petr Cech, John Terry and Eden Hazard are just some of the iconic players who have played for the London club.

And yet, Palmer snubbed all of them when asked to name which Premier League player was his icon growing up.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the Englishman admitted: “[Wayne] Rooney [was my icon].

“Obviously, I supported United and he was probably the best player when I was watching them.”

The winger then decided to pick the Manchester United legend as his dream partner in attack, ahead of Drogba, Thierry Henry and Sergio Aguero.

Despite playing in the academy of Manchester City, Palmer grew up supporting local rivals United, but revealed that his love for the Red Devils does not impact how he plays when Chelsea travel to Old Trafford.

Chelsea and Man Utd drew 1-1 in their Premier League meeting in November. (Image: Getty)

"Nah when I do go back to the stadium it’s good because obviously I used to go and watch matches there and stuff,” the Chelsea star confessed.

Palmer's shock revelation has reignited the hopes of some United fans who think that they could one day see him playing for the Red Devils.

With the Englishman openly speaking about his love for the club, it is quite likely that he would jump at the opportunity to play for them sometime in the future.

However, should the Manchester club hope to bring Palmer to Old Trafford, they will almost certainly have to break their transfer record to convince Chelsea to part ways with a player they have on contract until 2033.