Cole Palmer has withdrawn from the England squad with a small muscular injury.
The Chelsea playmaker was named in Thomas Tuchel’s first squad since the World Cup but will now miss the four Nations League matches that open the extended international window. David Ornstein of The Athletic reported the decision was taken for muscle load management. Matt Law of the Telegraph confirmed the issue is muscular.
Palmer has started the season strongly, recording four goals and two assists in seven appearances. He completed the full 90 minutes in Chelsea’s last four Premier League games and played 83 minutes in the opening win at Fulham.
Tuchel had spoken positively about the recall only days earlier. “Cole has his starts that he always had but he has his numbers back, he has his assists back, he has decisive goals back – so that is why he is in the squad,” the England manager said. “I think he has a point to prove, and the same goes for Trent.”
That point will now have to wait.
Marcus Rashford is also an injury doubt. The Manchester United forward was substituted in the 77th minute of the 1-1 draw at Fulham after developing an “issue.” Asked whether Rashford was fine, manager Michael Carrick replied: “I’m not sure.”
England begin their Nations League campaign at home to world champions Spain on Saturday 26 September (19:45 BST). They then travel to face Czechia on 29 September and Croatia on 3 October (behind closed doors) before hosting Czechia again at Wembley on 6 October.
Palmer’s absence removes one of the more creative options Tuchel had just restored. Further withdrawals remain possible as the three-week camp approaches.
Palmer’s muscular issue ends his immediate England return after a strong club start.
Tuchel’s “point to prove” comment now sits against an early withdrawal.
Rashford’s Fulham issue leaves England with two attacking doubts before Spain.
