TalkSPORT Darren Ambrose believes Chelsea star Cole Palmer can only be described as “world-class” once he has sustained his current form for a longer period of time.

The 22-year-old has been outstanding since joining the Blues from Manchester City last year but, when asked about Palmer’s status as a world-class player, Ambrose replied:

“He’s a sensational player and he’s going to be, He’s got massive potential. But to become world-class you have to do it for longer than one season, one and a half seasons.”

“That’s what Cole Palmer’s on at the moment, world-class form. But that doesn’t make you world-class.”

‘World-Class’ is such an arbitrary term

There is no criteria to determine what it actually means to be a “world-class player”. Ambrose’s description seems to rely on longevity as well as quality.

It’s doubtful that Palmer himself will care too much about being given such a label. He is such a laid-back character. His main focus will be on just trying to play his best, week-in, week-out,

Palmer’s England teammates seem to rate him highly

While some Chelsea fans may not be best pleased with Ambrose’s comments, the only opinions that really matter for Palmer are his manager and his fellow teammates.

It’s a testament to the high regard that he is held in that he was named England’s Player of the Year. Despite not starting regularly for the national team, the players voted for him anyway to recognise his excellent form over the past 15 months.

Palmer is expected to start for the Three Lions when Lee Carsley’s side take on Greece in a Nations League fixture on Thursday evening.

Blues supporters will be hoping that the midfielder comes through the international break unscathed so he can return to his club fit and ready to face Liverpool in 10 days’ time.

Find out who is in Chelsea’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here