Roy Keane has expressed his admiration for Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez and Cole Palmer.

Roy Keane was thoroughly impressed by Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez during Chelsea’s dominant 3-0 victory over Aston Villa on December 1 at Stamford Bridge. The win, which briefly lifted Chelsea to third place (level on points and goal difference with Arsenal), showcased the Blues’ attacking quality.

Goals from Nicolas Jackson and Enzo Fernandez in the first half, capitalizing on Villa’s defensive lapses, set the tone. Late in the game, Palmer sealed the win with a stunning left-footed strike from outside the box.

While Palmer’s spectacular goal drew much of the attention, it was the second goal, orchestrated by Fernandez, that captured Keane’s praise. Speaking on Sky Sports at halftime, Keane lauded the build-up, saying, “Pure quality. Quick play, one, two touches—this is where you see the quality. His first touch is key; it sets him up perfectly and leaves the defenders no chance to intervene. Brilliant, brilliant goal—well deserved.”

Under Enzo Maresca, Chelsea are emerging as genuine contenders in the top-four race, with some even suggesting an outside shot at the title. Maresca’s ability to rotate his squad effectively, thanks to Chelsea’s depth, contrasts sharply with Villa’s struggles to balance their Champions League commitments.

While Fernandez has had an inconsistent role this season despite his record-breaking transfer fee, recent performances suggest he’s now indispensable in Chelsea’s best XI. The Athletic noted that his form has proven “too valuable” to overlook.

Palmer, meanwhile, has been a revelation since his summer arrival, not just with his creativity but also with his improved off-the-ball contributions. The progress Chelsea have made under Maresca’s guidance, coupled with the players’ response in training, suggests the team is moving in the right direction—a sentiment reinforced by Keane’s glowing end

orsement.