Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole has heaped praise on young forward Tammy Abraham following his brilliant brace away to Norwich on Saturday afternoon.
The 21-year-old had to endure plenty of criticism during the first couple of games of the season, with Abraham missing the deciding penalty in the UEFA Super Cup final whilst also failing to bag at Old Trafford and at home to Leicester.
Despite having a bad couple of weeks in Chelsea blue, Saturday was a day to remember for the youngster, who managed to grab a terrific brace and dragged Frank Lampard’s men to a hard-fought 3-2 victory at Carrow Road.
In the studio for analysis, former Blues midfielder and Premier League title-winner Joe Cole gave his verdict on the striker’s sensational performance - highlighting his potential.
Cole went on to hint that Abraham could take Olivier Giroud’s place in the team very soon if he continues to perform to a consistent standard.
The pundit also compared the two forwards and what they can both offer - whilst also decided who could be a better fit for Chelsea in the coming season.
Speaking to BT Sports, he said: "Tammy has all the attributes to be a Chelsea centre-forward in the long run because of his pace, his strength, his hold-up play."
"If he keeps improving, he's a young man, then there's no reason why he can't become Chelsea's number nine for many, many years.
"It was lovely to see his face, he's been here 15 years, and to score his goals was great. What he brings that Giroud doesn't is this little burst of pace."
Giroud has become a real fan favourite since his move across London from Arsenal in early 2018, with a crucial 11 goals in the Europa League guiding them to continental success last season.
However, with the forward approaching his twilight years, the 32-year-old must battle with a confident, athletic and young Abraham for first team action.
He said: "It just worries defends and keeps them honest. With Giroud they can maybe play a high line, what Tammy does is this and he can learn from Giroud.
"That's very important for Tammy, Giroud is a top, top player who has had a top, top career and he's still got a lot to do. Tammy is in a great position to take things and bring them into his own game."
