Cole Palmer may be lighting up London, but the Chelsea star can't match Declan Rice when it comes to the Premier League's signing of the season.

Palmer is joint-top of the Premier League scorers chart with 20 to his name following his quadruple against Everton in Monday’s 6-0 triumph. Like Rice, he is on course for England selection ahead of Euro 2024 - but may have to be patient if he's to claim a starting spot over the likes of Bukayo Saka.

Rice meanwhile, who was signed by Arsenal from West Ham for £105m in the summer, is one of the first names on Gareth Southgate's teamsheet and is helping the Gunners challenge for the Premier League title and Champions League progression. His presence has contributed towards Arsenal conceding the feast goals in the league this season.

The 25-year-old has also chipped in with six goals and seven assists with his influence on Mikel Arteta’s set-up stark. Palmer has meanwhile exceeded expectations at Chelsea following his £45m summer deadline day move and has tallied 36 goal contributions for his new club this term.

However, former Premier League winner Chris Sutton says Rice would get his vote when it comes to choosing player of the season. He told BBC Radio 5 Live: “I think it’s difficult. Cole Palmer comes into it, just because I’ve seen him score a hat-trick this evening.

"But Declan Rice I think. Just for his influence on this Arsenal team as much as anything. I think he’s made a huge impact.”

Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino hailed Palmer for his four goals against Everton, which included a perfect hat-trick by scoring with both feet and his head inside 29 minutes before his second-half penalty.

He said: “The impact on the team was amazing from day one. We always expect the best with everyone we sign, so it has not surprised us. He was always the player with the capacity to score goals, even in Manchester City.

“But the way he adapted himself and the way he is playing and performing is fantastic. It is amazing for the team, amazing for him, and shows that the club made the right decision by signing him.”

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