Chelsea forward Cole Palmer will be sidelined for another six weeks due to a groin injury, raising concerns about his chances of making England's squad for the 2026 World Cup. Manager Enzo Maresca confirmed the setback, dashing hopes of a swift return for the 23-year-old.
Palmer has not played since limping off against Manchester United last month and has missed the past two international breaks. Maresca emphasised the importance of a full recovery: 'We try to protect Cole as much as we can. The most important thing is when he comes back he is fully fit.'
England head coach Thomas Tuchel will be without Palmer for upcoming qualifiers against Albania and Serbia. Palmer has made only three starts this season and has featured just once under Tuchel. Competition for attacking midfield places includes Morgan Rogers, Eberechi Eze, Morgan Gibbs-White, Jude Bellingham, and Phil Foden.
Tuchel has limited time to assess options before naming his 26-man squad, with warm-up friendlies in March likely his last chance to see Palmer play. The injury could also see Palmer miss key Chelsea fixtures, including league games against Arsenal and Tottenham, as well as Champions League matches.
On a positive note, Reece James and Andrey Santos have returned to fitness, though Benoît Badiashile is out until December.
