Cole Palmer is a Caribbean hero! Chelsea's 'cold' superstar receives grand reception in native St Kitts and Nevis for FIFA Club World Cup exploits

After playing a pivotal role in Chelsea’s Club World Cup triumph, Cole Palmer has used his time off to reconnect with his heritage as he travelled to the island of St Kitts in the Caribbean. The island is the birthplace of his grandfather, Sterry Palmer, and it marks the Chelsea star’s first-ever trip to the country.

  • Palmer inspired to CWC win
  • Visited his granddad’s Caribbean birthplace
  • Rousing welcome upon arrival

Cole Palmer is a Caribbean hero! Chelsea's 'cold' superstar receives grand reception in native St Kitts and Nevis for FIFA Club World Cup exploitsCole Palmer is a Caribbean hero! Chelsea's 'cold' superstar receives grand reception in native St Kitts and Nevis for FIFA Club World Cup exploits

Although he was born and raised in , Palmer has always maintained strong emotional ties to his Caribbean roots. In fact, he regularly wears football boots adorned with the flags of both England and St Kitts and Nevis as a tribute to his dual heritage.

Upon his arrival, Palmer was met with a rapturous reception. Among those waiting to greet him were Dr. Hon. Geoffrey Hanley, the Deputy Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, and the country’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Marsha T. Henderson. A vibrant performance by a local troupe of traditional masquerade dancers featured a special act for the esteemed guest.

Clearly moved by the reception, Palmer expressed his joy at finally visiting the place that inspired his family’s love for the sport.

“Landing in St Kitts off the back of winning the Club felt really special,” he told reporters. “It’s where my grandad’s love for football started. The island’s beautiful and really chilled. I can’t wait to explore the mountains, rainforest and sea – and to try out the food.”

Palmer’s visit comes during a brief window of downtime before the gears up for its return in just a month’s time. Chelsea begin their campaign with a challenging stretch of matches starting with , followed by clashes against , , and .