Thomas Tuchel has warned Cole Palmer and Kobbie Mainoo that repeatedly missing England camps could make it harder for them to keep their places in the squad.
According to Metro, both players were originally named in England’s squad for the upcoming games against Spain, the Czech Republic and Croatia. However, Palmer and Mainoo withdrew from the squad earlier this week.
Speaking ahead of England’s clash with Spain, Tuchel made it clear that competition for places remains strong. He explained that whenever a player misses an international camp, another player gets the chance to train, play and impress the coaching staff.
Tuchel said the door remains open for players who want to represent England, but they have to make themselves available and perform when they get the opportunity.
The England boss also said his main focus was on the players who arrived at camp on Monday and were ready to work with the team. He insisted there was no issue of trust or any threat aimed at those who pulled out, but admitted that missing camps naturally gives other players the chance to compete for their positions.
Palmer’s latest withdrawal is particularly notable after he was left out of England’s World Cup squad during the summer. Mainoo, meanwhile, was included in the tournament squad but did not feature.
Palmer has continued to deal with a long-standing groin problem that has affected him since the beginning of last season. Despite the issue, he has remained a regular for Chelsea this season and has played the full 90 minutes in four of their five Premier League matches.
Tuchel confirmed that Palmer’s latest withdrawal was not because of a new injury. Instead, the Chelsea midfielder had been experiencing pain and discomfort that prevented him from performing at his best.
Palmer has not played for England since March, when the Three Lions lost 1-0 to Japan. Since then, competition for places in England’s attack has become even tougher.
When asked if Palmer’s absence from another international camp was another missed opportunity, Tuchel agreed.
The England manager said Palmer had already missed too many opportunities and England camps because of injuries. He added that his assessment of players can only be based on what he sees when they are with the national team.
Tuchel’s message was clear: players cannot establish themselves at the highest level with England if they are not available to attend camps and compete on the pitch.
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