TUCHEL WARNS PALMER OVER ENGLAND FUTURE AFTER WITHDRAWAL

Thomas Tuchel has told Cole Palmer his latest withdrawal from the England squad represents a "missed opportunity" for his international future. Palmer was one of five players to pull out of the squad after being recalled, with Chelsea informing England's coaching staff that the decision was linked to load management. Tuchel made the comments ahead of England's Nations League fixture against Spain. Palmer had impressed for Chelsea this season, playing in all five of the club's Premier League matches so far under Xabi Alonso as part of an attacking trio, after being left out of last summer's World Cup squad.

Tuchel said Palmer "misses way too many camps with injuries" and said it was "another missed opportunity" for the player. He said he can only rely on what he witnesses from players in camp, adding that anyone absent cannot reach "the next level to impress" without being with him on the pitch. Tuchel said his understanding was that Palmer was playing through discomfort and pain that meant he could not compete at the highest level, prompting the withdrawal. According to the Daily Mail, Palmer withdrew from the squad on Monday morning while reportedly monitoring a minor injury.

Tuchel said England had created a competitive environment that players love being part of, describing it as "togetherness and brotherhood," and said he would not compromise on that culture. He said the squad would never allow a feeling to develop in which players do not want to attend camp. Tuchel said the focus would remain on players who "absolutely want to play for England." Declan Rice was also among the five players who withdrew from the squad alongside Palmer.