Chelsea supporters are voicing their concerns after a disappointing match against Aston Villa where Cole Palmer, utilized as a false nine by manager Mauricio Pochettino, failed to make a positive impact.
Frustration among the fanbase is palpable as they implore Pochettino to reconsider Palmer’s position, fearing that playing him as a striker may hinder his development.
In the aftermath of the match, critics point out that Palmer, despite being a talented player, struggled in the false nine role, reminiscent of a previous encounter with Middlesbrough. The missed scoring opportunities against Aston Villa have intensified the supporters’ call for a change, urging Pochettino to avoid repeating the decision to use Palmer as a striker.
The sentiment is clear among Chelsea fans that while Palmer is an exceptional talent, his effectiveness diminishes when placed as a false nine. Some supporters argue that his natural position is at the sixteen, implying that a different role on the field might better suit his skills.
The plea to permit Palmer to play in his preferred position is underscored by the belief that securing a proper number nine is imperative for the team’s success.
The dissatisfaction with Palmer’s performance as a striker is further emphasized in critical comments. Fans express their frustration, suggesting that other players like Callum Hudson-Odoi (CHO) or Christian Pulisic would have been more impactful choices. The disappointment reaches a point where one supporter refers to a particular player as a waste, specifically mentioning the need to move on from Mudryk.
The critique extends to Palmer’s apparent lack of progress in the false nine role, with supporters highlighting his skills shining at the number ten position but faltering as a striker. The consensus among fans is that Palmer’s talents are better utilized in a different position, potentially as an attacking midfielder rather than a forward.
Looking ahead, some supporters propose a tactical adjustment, recommending a shift to a 4-4-2 formation with Noni Madueke on the left side and Raheem Sterling on the right. The suggestion aims to allow Palmer to operate as a central attacking midfielder (CAM), potentially maximizing his abilities and providing a more suitable role for his style of play.
