A must pick or unreliable? Tuchel’s Palmer dilemma

England manager Thomas Tuchel faces a major selection dilemma regarding Chelsea forward Cole Palmer ahead of upcoming Nations League matches against Croatia and Spain. Despite Palmer registering five goals and three assists this season, Tuchel previously voiced frustration after the 24-year-old withdrew from squads, remarking that he "misses too many opportunities to play for England." Palmer was also left out of England's recent World Cup campaign.

While Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso defended Palmer's commitment, noting he must be fully fit to perform, Palmer faces fierce competition for the attacking midfield role. Rivals such as Jude Bellingham, Morgan Rogers, Phil Foden, and Morgan Gibbs-White have frequently outperformed Palmer in non-penalty goals or availability. Tuchel is scheduled to announce his final squad on Friday.