England’s senior squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures against Croatia and Spain will omit Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer, while Borussia Dortmund’s Jobe Bellingham earns his first senior call‑up, the FA announced on Friday.
The Football Association confirmed the 23‑man roster on Friday, noting that Palmer’s exclusion follows a muscle injury that forced him out of the September training camp. The 24‑year‑old had previously withdrawn from England duties due to the same problem, prompting manager Thomas Tuchel to comment on his recurring absences. “It’s another missed opportunity. He misses too many opportunities,” Tuchel said at the time. “I don’t blame him for it, it’s just a fact. He misses way too many camps with injuries.”
Palmer has contributed five goals and three assists in 11 appearances across all competitions for Chelsea this season, but his injury record has limited his availability for the national side.
In contrast, Jobe Bellingham, the younger brother of England midfielder Jude Bellingham, has been rewarded for his impressive displays with Borussia Dortmund and the England Under‑21 team by receiving his maiden senior call‑up. The 20‑year‑old’s selection reflects his rapid development and the coaching staff’s desire to inject fresh talent into the midfield.
Fulham attacking midfielder Josh King also secured a place in the squad after participating in England’s pre‑World Cup training camp in Florida during the summer. King’s inclusion adds depth to the attacking options on the wings.
England national football team currently sit second in Group C of the Nations League. The side will host Croatia at Wembley Stadium before travelling to Madrid to face Spain later this month. Both matches are crucial for England’s chances of progressing to the competition’s final stages.
The squad selection underscores Tuchel’s ongoing challenge of balancing player fitness with tactical needs. While Palmer’s injury woes have limited his involvement, the introduction of Bellingham and King signals a willingness to broaden the pool of players capable of contributing at the senior level.
The upcoming fixtures will test the depth of the squad, with the manager expected to rely on a mix of experienced internationals and newcomers to secure positive results in both the home and away legs.