Latest news with #SterryPalmer
The Independent
4 days ago
- Sport
- The Independent
Cole Palmer receives hero's welcome in grandfather's birthplace St Kitts
Chelsea and England footballer Cole Palmer arrived to a hero's welcome on the tiny Caribbean island of St Kitts, where his grandfather was born. Fresh from rubbing shoulders with Donald Trump after lifting the Fifa Club World Cup with victory over PSG in New York on Sunday, Palmer, 23, made his first visit with his family to the birthplace of his grandfather, Sterry Palmer, a place close to his heart. The midfielder, born and raised in Wythenshawe, Manchester, is also proud of his Caribbean heritage, wearing the flag of St Kitts and Nevis – alongside the England flag – on his football boots to honour his family's roots. The gesture has delighted Kittitians, who have taken Palmer into their hearts, with his 'cold' goal celebration copied by schoolchildren across the island, which has a population of just 47,600. He was met by the deputy prime minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Geoffrey Hanley, and tourism minister Marsha T Henderson, on arrival at the airport on Monday night and, alongside a troupe of traditional Masquerade performers, Palmer and his family were given an authentic Kittitian welcome. Palmer said: 'Landing in St Kitts off the back of winning the Club World Cup felt really special. '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.' St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Terrance Drew said: 'Cole Palmer's visit to St Kitts and Nevis is a powerful reminder of the strength and pride of our diaspora. 'His presence and mentorship will inspire the next generation to believe that global success is possible, no matter where you come from. 'We are proud to welcome him home and deeply grateful for his commitment to our young people and to the development of sports in our federation.' Ms Henderson said: 'It's an honour to welcome Cole Palmer and his family to St Kitts. The Palmers already have a special connection to the island and that will only grow as they spend time exploring our lush rainforests, picturesque mountains and stunning waters, and savouring our rich culture and cuisine.'
The Sun
5 days ago
- Sport
- The Sun
Cole Palmer arrives in St Kitts to hero's welcome after Club World Cup as Chelsea star visits grandad's birthplace
COLE PALMER was given a hero's welcome at a Caribbean island following Chelsea's Club World Cup success. The midfielder netted two goals as the Blues beat Paris Saint-Germain in the final of the tournament on Saturday. 8 8 8 8 Palmer, 23, has now jetted off for a break ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign which starts next month. The England international is now enjoying himself before returning to London for pre-season. He has flown to St. Kitts in the Caribbean with the island holding a special place in his heart. The exotic holiday destination was the birthplace of Palmer's grandfather, Sterry Palmer. Palmer's love of the island is well-known as he wears the flag of St. Kitts and Nevis on his boots alongside the English flag. It is the first time that Chelsea 's No.10 has visited the island and he was given a rousing reception. Palmer was greeted by the deputy prime minister Dr. Hon. Geoffrey Hanley and the minister of tourism Hon. Marsha T. Henderson. A troupe of traditional Masquerade performers were also on hand to give the star an authentic Kittitian welcome. Palmer admitted his excitement to see the island and experience its culture shortly after landing. He said: "Landing in St. Kitts off the back of winning the Club World Cup felt really special. Chelsea fans stunned after Cole Palmer spotted riding SCOOTER before PSG clash in New York "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 recent achievements were even hailed by the prime minister Dr. Terrance Drew. He insisted that Palmer can help inspire youngsters in St. Kitts and Nevis to success of their own. 8 8 8 8 He said: "Cole Palmer's visit to St. Kitts and Nevis is a powerful reminder of the strength and pride of our diaspora. "His presence and mentorship will inspire the next generation to believe that global success is possible, no matter where you come from. "We are proud to welcome him home and deeply grateful for his commitment to our young people and to the development of sports in our Federation." The trip follows on from Palmer's excellent performances at the Club World Cup in the US. The midfielder engrossed himself in the American lifestyle and even scootered incognito through Times Square before the final against PSG. During the trophy lift, Palmer was left looking confused as president Donald Trump joined the Blues for their celebrations. Palmer's dad, Jermaine, previously spoke about the prospect of him visiting St. Kitts and Nevis and joked that he would need a police escort. Palmer and co will start their Premier League campaign with FOUR London derbies in a row. Enzo Maresca 's side first face Crystal Palace before clashes against West Ham, Fulham and Brentford.
