Posted by Chinenye on Fri 13th Nov, 2026 - tori.ng
England star Morgan Rogers has spoken out in support of his Chelsea teammate Cole Palmer after people questioned his commitment to the national team.
(Cole Palmer. Photo by Evening Standard)
England midfielder Morgan Rogers has defended his teammate Cole Palmer, saying rumors that Palmer doesn't care about playing for his country are false.
He called the claims a lie and nonsense after England beat Croatia 2 - 1 in the UEFA Nations League on Thursday.
Rogers scored the opener.
Harry Kane then sealed the win from the penalty spot in his record breaking 126th appearance for England.
Palmer was left out of Thomas Tuchel's squad.
Tuchel said Palmer had missed too many chances to impress.
Palmer also missed out on England's World Cup squad and pulled out of the previous camp in September, citing a minor injury.
Speaking to Radio 5 Live, Rogers said Palmer wants to be in camp and has always wanted to represent his country.
He said Palmer struggled with injuries last year and did not always feel fully fit on the pitch.
Rogers said his friend needs to manage his body carefully to have a long career, and that this has nothing to do with not wanting to play for England.
Palmer has 14 England caps, with two goals and one assist.
One of those goals was England's equaliser in the Euro 2024 final against Spain, which England lost 2-1.
He has also had a strong club season, with 50 Premier League goals and 24 assists.
He was named England Men's Player of the Year for 2023-24.
Since Tuchel replaced Gareth Southgate, Palmer has played in only three of the 27 matches.
Tuchel says Palmer is still part of his plans but that the competition for attacking midfield spots is tough.
He said the manager's door is always open to Palmer, but players must make the most of their chances when called up.