Sir Keir Starmer might be watching the local election results with a grimace this morning, but the verdict from the stands is even colder. While the Prime Minister navigates a nightmare at the polls, Chelsea talisman Cole Palmer has emerged as the man the public actually trusts to deliver for the nation.
A damning new[Betfair](https://www.betfair.com/betting/football/s-1) x YouGov survey has revealed that when it comes to reliability, football fans are picking Palmer over the resident of Number 10.
In a brutal reality check for the Labour leader, the data shows that 35% of the public trust Palmer to deliver for his country this summer, comfortably outstripping the 29% who back Starmer to do the same in office.
It seems the Chelsea star’s ice-cold composure from the penalty spot has won over more hearts than Starmer’s policy platform. With England heading into the World Cup as 13/2 third-favourites, the message from the public is clear: we’d rather have Cole in charge.
### **The 'Number 10' Dilemma**
The snub doesn't stop at the Chelsea man. When asked who should be pulling the strings in the "Number 10" role, the public opted for **Jude Bellingham** ( **31%** ) over Starmer ( **16%** ).
The survey also highlighted a nation officially 'over' the Westminster bubble:
* **Pressure Cooker:** A massive **70%** of fans believe Harry Kane handles pressure better than Starmer.
* **Manager Swap:** More than double the number of people surveyed ( **37%** ) would rather have England boss **Thomas Tuchel** as Prime Minister than see Starmer take the reins of the national team ( **16%** ).
* **National Unity:** **61%** of respondents believe a World Cup trophy would do more to bring Britain together than any change of government.
### **Loyalty Lies at the Bridge**
The local election fatigue is clear. 78% of fans admitted they are more likely to stick by their football team than their political party when performance levels drop., a worrying stat for Starmer as the results trickle in today.
Betfair’s James Mackie noted: "Who should sit on the benches? The debates around football and politics overlap hugely, but the nation's heart is firmly with the squad heading to the World Cup."
As Starmer licks his wounds, he might want to steer clear of the King’s Road. If the latest numbers are anything to go by, the country has found a new 'Special One,' and he wears a Chelsea shirt.
_Everyone’s got an opinion, back yours at [Betfair](https://www.betfair.com/betting/football/s-1)._