City kicked off our pre-season campaign with victory over the Lilywhites, with goals from Riyad Mahrez and Sam Edozie enough to secure a positive result.
With a number of Pep Guardiola’s senior stars enjoying a prolonged summer rest following involved in the European Championships and Copa America, several young stars were given an opportunity to flourish at the Academy Stadium.
Indeed, nine teenagers featured in total for City across the 90 minutes and, in the face of sustained pressure from the visitors, remained committed and organised to see out the victory.
Palmer was delighted with the display in both a personal and collective sense: “I thought we showed courage and bravery, it showed and we played well.
“It was good to be back out there with the lads. I really enjoyed the game and hopefully it’s the start now for me and the team to have a good season.”
The 2020-21 season could be characterised as a breakthrough season for Palmer who, after making his senior bow in the Carabao Cup in September, went on to play a vital role in our Elite Development Squad’s inaugural Premier League 2 title triumph.
The attacking midfielder was rewarded for his consistent displays with a new contract in June, committing his future to the Club until 2026.
And the 19-year-old is keen to ensure he continues his meteoric rise in the upcoming campaign, starting with Saturday’s pre-season clash at home to Barnsley.
“Every game, I’ve got to try and show what I can do and hopefully against Barnsley I can show what I can do again,” he reflected following our victory over Preston.
“I’ve always felt at home ever since I went over (to the first team) last year. The lads make you feel really welcome. To be involved is good, I just need to keep going now.”
