Overview
- Thomas Tuchel left Cole Palmer out of his November Nations League squad after the Chelsea forward withdrew from a recent camp with a recurring groin issue and Tuchel said Palmer "misses too many opportunities to impress."
- Morgan Rogers, who scored the opener in England’s 2-1 win over Croatia, told BBC Radio 5 Live on Thursday that suggestions Palmer does not want to play for England "is a lie" and urged understanding of the player’s need to manage his body for the long term.
- Tuchel described Rogers’ public defence as "totally fine" at his post-match press conference and praised Rogers’ commitment in the game, while keeping the selection message that availability will be rewarded.
- Palmer has 14 England caps, scored in the Euro 2024 final, and has produced strong club numbers since 2023–24 but has been limited by recurring minor injuries and featured only sparingly under Tuchel, missing the 2026 World Cup.
- Palmer’s return to the squad will likely hinge on sustained fitness and consistent camp attendance rather than single-match form, with competition for attacking creative roles from players such as Jude Bellingham, Eberechi Eze and Morgan Rogers making a recall harder.