Palmer and Foden were the talking point after England’s 3-0 win over Czechia on Tuesday night, when Thomas Tuchel was asked whether the pair can fit into his team at all. The England head coach gave an honest answer: he is not sure. With England scoring freely and playing at a high tempo, Cole Palmer and Phil Foden now face a real fight to get back into the squad, and into the starting XI, for the Euro 2028 cycle.
Palmer and Foden: Key Facts
- Who: Cole Palmer (Chelsea) and Phil Foden (Manchester City)
- Said by: England head coach Thomas Tuchel, after the 3-0 Nations League win over Czechia on October 6, 2026
- Palmer’s status: recalled for the September squad, but withdrew from the group
- Foden’s status: left out of the squad by Tuchel
- England’s form: 7-0 at Croatia, 3-0 against Czechia, 2-0 in Prague
What Tuchel Said About Palmer and Foden
Asked about Palmer and Foden after the Czechia match, Tuchel said he was unsure whether the pair can fit England’s all-out, fluid style of attacking football. His reply to the question was a simple “I don’t know”. He then pointed to the players who were actually in camp, saying the team had taken another step and that the focus belongs on the group that is there.
It was a notable comment because both players are among the most talented attackers in English football. Tuchel’s message was clear, though: a big reputation does not guarantee a place in this side.
Why Palmer and Foden Are Missing
Palmer was recalled to Tuchel’s first Nations League squad after the World Cup, along with Trent Alexander-Arnold, after both were left out of the summer tournament squad. Palmer later withdrew from the squad. Foden, on the other hand, was left out of the squad altogether, so neither was part of the group that beat Czechia and Croatia.
The coach’s doubts about Foden are not new. Before the World Cup, Tuchel said Foden looked excellent in training but struggled to show it in matches, and that his place was never guaranteed. Palmer also had a quiet game in the same March window.
The Team Is Doing Fine Without Palmer and Foden
The results make it easy for Tuchel to stay patient. England beat Croatia 7-0, won 2-0 in Prague and then beat Czechia 3-0 at Wembley, with Harry Kane scoring twice on his record-equalling 125th cap. The only defeat came in the opening game, a 3-2 loss to Spain. You can read the full story in our England 3-0 Czechia match report.
The attacking midfield places are also crowded. Jude Bellingham, Morgan Rogers and Eberechi Eze all played well in recent games, and Bukayo Saka is back fit on the right. When Palmer was recalled, Tuchel said the numbers do not add up, and that being chosen is one thing while performing for England is another.
What Palmer and Foden Must Do Next
For Palmer and Foden, the route back is simple but difficult. They need strong club form and a role that suits Tuchel’s high-intensity style, which relies on pressing, quick passing and constant movement. England finished third at the World Cup after a painful semi-final defeat to Argentina, and Tuchel is now building the team for Euro 2028. That gives both players time, but also means younger or more energetic options will keep getting chances.
The next international window is in November, so Palmer and Foden have the Premier League season to change the coach’s mind. The next squad announcement will show whether Tuchel’s “I don’t know” turns into a recall or a longer wait.
Palmer and Foden: Frequently Asked Questions
What did Tuchel say about Palmer and Foden?
He said he is not sure whether they can fit England’s fast, fluid attacking style.
Why was Foden not in the England squad?
Tuchel left him out of the squad for the Nations League games in September and October.
Did Palmer play against Czechia?
No. Palmer withdrew from the squad and was not part of the group that played.
What is England’s next competition?
The Nations League continues in November, and Euro 2028 is the next major tournament.
For the full story of the night, read our England vs Czechia preview and the Sky Sports England news blog.
Niraj Yadav is the Founder of Kehlsamachar.com and a passionate cricket content writer. He covers match previews, reports, live updates, player performances, points tables, and major cricket tournaments, bringing readers clear, reliable, and up-to-date sports coverage.