That decision was vindicated as Palmer played a starring role in our 7-0 thrashing of the League One side, driving us forward from his central attacking position and linking up play in the final third as we prised the Port Vale backline open.

While Palmer is known to be an unassuming character off the pitch, Rosenior explained it is what Cole does on it that is the primary reason why he selected our no.10 as captain against the Valiants.

‘It’s a natural step for Cole given where he is in his career,’ said Rosenior.

‘He shows leadership, as you have different types of leadership. You have players who talk, who organise, but what Cole does and how he leads is that he's so brave and he'll take the ball anywhere on the pitch. And if he makes a mistake, he'll take the ball again and be positive again. That reflects what I want in this team. I felt Cole led the team magnificently in the game.

‘As I've said, players can lead in different ways. Cole is a player who, in big moments, can win you games. But if you watch the game, with Cole or with Joao (Pedro), they're tracking back, they're chasing back into their own box. Pedro Neto is making tackles in his own box.

‘Sometimes, you have to go back to basics and I felt the players, in terms of the fundamentals of the game were very, very good. And Cole led by example.’