Morgan Rogers has defended Chelsea teammate Cole Palmer against criticism over his commitment to England duty, after the forward was left out of Thomas Tuchel's most recent squad.
Since Tuchel took charge as Three Lions boss in January 2025, Palmer has featured on just three occasions, across two different international windows. The 24-year-old battled a persistent groin complaint throughout the 2025/26 season and also withdrew from the October international fixtures this term owing to a minor issue.
Rogers: 'It's a lie'
On this occasion, Palmer was sufficiently fit to represent England and the Three Lions made contact with Chelsea to assess his condition. Despite being informed the forward was ready, Tuchel opted to select alternative players.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Rogers said: "He wants to be here. He wanted to get called up and he wanted to come and represent his country and he always has done."
"He was in quite a low place with his injuries last year and didn't feel 100 per cent himself on the pitch, so he wants to be here and he wants to be the best version of himself."
"But he also has to look at his body. He wants to play for 10 or 15 years, he also has to manage himself. If he has to manage himself in the short term for the greater good then he has to do that and you have to fully support it."
"It has nothing to do with England or not wanting to play with England. It's a nonsense really that people are questioning someone that wants to play for England. It's a lie."
Tuchel's response
Tuchel stated in September that Palmer "misses too many opportunities" to represent his nation: "He misses too many opportunities, and I don't blame him for it, it's just the fact."
"He misses way too many camps with injuries and I only want to rely on what I personally witness and what I see within my team. And for that you have to be in the camp."
Following Thursday's match, Tuchel was questioned about Rogers' remarks: "It's totally fine as his teammate and I guess his friend, so why wouldn't he make an emotional statement if he did it?"
"I didn't hear it, so I will not comment on it. All I can say is I was very happy with the emotional commitment from Morgan and the physical commitment of Morgan Rogers. I think he was the standout player today offensively and defensively, and that is what matters."
Rogers scores for England
Rogers broke the deadlock for England in their 2-1 victory over Croatia in the Nations League on Thursday night. It was the Chelsea forward's seventh goal for club and country this season.
