Enzo Maresca hailed Cole Palmer as the “best in the Premier League” following his historic feat of becoming the first player to score four goals in a Premier League first half during Chelsea’s 4-2 triumph over Brighton.

Palmer delivered a stunning performance at Stamford Bridge, netting four times within just 20 minutes, including a sublime free-kick that curled into the top corner.

The reigning young player of the year continued his impressive form, making it six goals in six games and contributing to Chelsea’s third consecutive league victory.

“He scored four but he also could have scored two or three more,” said Blues manager Maresca. “It’s important he stays hungry, ambitious and I know him from many years ago with the under-23s at City and with the first team.

“What he was as a boy is exactly what he was three or four years ago. Goals, assists, best player of the Premier League this doesn’t change the way he is. He’s a humble guy and for me it’s the most important thing.

“He’s a top player and today in football young players can change quick. Cole scores goals and never changes and this is the most important thing.

“He’s special player, he’s a simple and humble guy. He doesn’t need to tell people how good he is because you can see it clearly.”

Previously coached by Maresca in City’s youth squad before moving up to Pep Guardiola’s senior side, Palmer has been tipped by the Italian coach to excel in various positions on the pitch.

“We try to use Cole in that position (as a 10) because it’s his best position,” he added. “He can play as a false nine, as a nine, a winger, in the pocket, he’s so good, Cole inside the pitch is where he’s best.

“I have three kids, my boy is 11 and I would like my boy (to be the person) that if many things happen, nothing with him changes. With young players and boys they can change easily, the best thing he (Palmer) has is he enjoys football and it’s fantastic for him.”

Chelsea equalised following a botched pass from Adam Webster to goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, which Nicolas Jackson capitalised on by providing a simple assist for Palmer to slot home.

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler admitted that Palmer took full advantage of their individual mistakes in west London.

“So far yes,” Hurzeler confirmed when questioned if Palmer is the top talent his Brighton squad has encountered this term.

“He scored four goals and punished every mistake. He punished the first and second with the penalty, you can’t stop him in one-on-one situations and we have to defend him as a team.”

“Sometimes we lost our structure and it’s difficult to defend players like this.”