Cole Palmer has yet to join England’s training camp under new manager Thomas Tuchel, remaining at Chelsea for further assessment on his injury. With England set to face Albania and Latvia in World Cup qualifiers, Palmer is expected to miss both matches.
England began full training under Tuchel on Tuesday, but Palmer was absent, still undergoing medical evaluation at Chelsea after missing Sunday’s 1-0 defeat to Arsenal. His absence had already been anticipated, leading to the late call-up of Nottingham Forest midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White.
All other members of the 26-man squad took part in training at St George’s Park, including Newcastle defender Dan Burn, who was rested on Monday after playing for his club. Tuchel also invited Under-21 players Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Adam Wharton, and Liam Delap to train with the senior squad as he begins evaluating his options.
England kick off their World Cup qualification campaign against Albania on Friday, followed by a match against Latvia at Wembley on Monday. Palmer’s return timeline remains uncertain, with Chelsea hoping he will be fit after the international break.
Palmer’s absence is a setback for England and Chelsea, who rely on his creativity in attack. The focus now shifts to his recovery timeline and whether he can return in time for Chelsea’s crucial upcoming fixtures.
