Chelsea teammate Cole Palmer has been defended by Morgan Rogers after England boss Thomas Tuchel seemed to question the playmaker’s commitment to the national side. Palmer was pulled out of the Three Lions squad for the Nations League fixtures against Spain, the Czech Republic and Croatia, prompting sharp observations from the German tactician.
Tuchel had said on Friday the 24-year-old missed too many international camps through injury and described his latest absence as another missed opportunity. Rogers, who shared a room with Palmer during their time in England’s youth ranks, insisted that physical wellbeing must take precedence for any professional footballer.
Ahead of Saturday’s showdown with world champions Spain at Wembley, Rogers told reporters:
“Unfortunately he couldn’t be here, but I think he’s got to focus on his body after what he went through last year. He needs to be in a good physical state and that obviously comes first as players. You want to be in the best fighting-fit shape if you can.”
The former Aston Villa frontman couldn’t resist taking a playful dig at his close pal, grinning as he said:
“Nah, I’m all right having the break from him, to be honest. Being around him 24/7 can be quite tough, so having the break’s quite nice. But of course, I love playing with Cole. I love being around him.”
Rogers admitted he was disappointed, from a selfish perspective, not to have Palmer available but believes it will ultimately benefit club and country. The pair have formed a formidable understanding under Xabi Alonso this season, with seven goals and six assists between them. Their friendship goes back to their time together coming through the ranks at Manchester City’s academy.
Rogers has thrived since record-breaking move to Stamford Bridge
Rogers moved from Aston Villa to Chelsea in July in a deal understood to be worth £117m, making him the most expensive British player ever. The England international has penned a seven-year deal at Stamford Bridge, keeping him at the club until 2033.
The 24-year-old has been a perfect fit within Alonso’s system, tallying three goals and four assists in his first seven games. His most productive night came in the third round of the League Cup when he provided three assists in a 6-3 victory over Leeds United.
Rogers arrived in West London after an impressive spell at Villa, where he scored 31 goals in 125 appearances. He also assisted Anthony Gordon’s goal in England’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina this summer. Chelsea will aim to continue their Premier League campaign in better form when they host Bournemouth at the weekend.