Unknown Chelsea prankster strikes again: X-rated message on Palmer's match ball

Cole Palmer has again been teased by one of his team-mates after netting his second hat-trick in 11 days in Chelsea's 6-0 demolition of Everton at Stamford Bridge.

The 21-year-old posed for a photo alongside outgoing physio Steven Hughes, with the match ball which could be seen adorned with the message: 'I told you you are a s*** player.'

The message comes after Palmer's match ball following his three-piece against Manchester United had the taunt ''s*** player' inscribed on it.

On Monday, the former Manchester City winger went one better than his heroics against the Red Devils, scoring four times in the thumping win over the Toffees.

Internet detectives will no doubt try to piece together the clues and deduce who is responsible, though Palmer is unlikely to be bothered by the sarcastic comment after his latest startling display.

His four-goal haul at Stamford Bridge took him to 20 Premier League goals for the season, level at the top of the Golden Boot race with his old Man City team-mate Erling Haaland.

Praise was quick to pile in for the winger who has been one of the signings of the season since swapping the Etihad for Stamford Bridge in a £42.5m switch.

Match of the Day host Gary Lineker was amongst the pundits to applaud Palmer's sensational performance as he tweeted on his X profile: 'He’s exceptionally talented is Cole Palmer' alongside three clapping emojis.

The praise didn't stop there as former Man United defender Rio Ferdinand similarly marvelled over Palmer's opening heroics against the relegation-threatened Toffees.

Ferdinand named Palmer as amongst England's best, posting online: 'Cole Palmer hitting some mad numbers… on the [plane] to [Germany]. Declan / Jude / Foden / Palmer / Saka / Kane.'

Jamie Carragher also