Cole Palmer’s latest England comeback has been halted by injury, with the Chelsea star withdrawing from the national team after suffering a muscle problem.
The 24-year-old had only just earned his way back into Thomas Tuchel’s plans following his omission from England’s 2026 World Cup squad. He will now miss all four of the Three Lions’ opening UEFA Nations League fixtures for the 2026-27 campaign.
Sky Sports reported that Palmer pulled out of international duty because of the injury.
The setback comes just days after Tuchel named him in his 27-man England squad on September 18. Palmer had also completed the full 90 minutes for Chelsea in their 3-0 Premier League defeat to Brentford on Friday.
Before the injury emerged, Palmer had made an encouraging start to the new season. The forward had scored four goals and provided two assists in seven appearances for Chelsea.
Tuchel had pointed to those numbers when explaining Palmer’s return to the England setup.
“Cole has his numbers back. Assists, decisive goals. I think he has a point to prove,” the manager said.
Palmer had also spoken positively about his physical condition before the latest setback. He said he felt better physically than he had in a long time and believed regular matches would help him continue building his fitness.
The Chelsea attacker had also been working daily to reduce the risk of further injury problems.
Chelsea later confirmed that Palmer would remain at Cobham to concentrate on his recovery and fitness.
His withdrawal leaves Tuchel with another selection issue ahead of England’s Nations League opener against Spain at Wembley on September 26.
England are scheduled to face Spain before travelling to Prague to meet Czechia on September 29. They will then take on Croatia away on October 3 before welcoming Czechia to Wembley on October 6.
Palmer was one of several notable players brought back into the England squad after Tuchel made eight changes following the World Cup. Trent Alexander-Arnold was another high-profile returnee.
The Chelsea forward’s latest injury also revives concerns over the fitness problems that disrupted his 2025-26 campaign and contributed to his World Cup omission.
Tuchel must now prepare England’s attack without Palmer as the team begins its Nations League campaign against the reigning world champions.
Chelsea also confirmed that Wesley Fofana had withdrawn from France duty, while Omari Kellyman pulled out of the England Under-20 squad after suffering a hamstring injury.
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