Roy Keane has cast serious doubt over Cole Palmer’s ability to take England up a level, claiming the Chelsea playmaker has too many bad habits. The former Manchester United captain gave his damning verdict on ITV ahead of England’s 3-2 UEFA Nations League defeat by Spain at Wembley on Saturday.
Palmer was left out of England’s World Cup squad this summer but had been recalled by Thomas Tuchel. But the 24-year-old was among those to pull out alongside Declan Rice, Kobbie Mainoo, Marcus Rashford and Tino Livramento, with reports suggesting it was for load management.
Explaining his scepticism, Keane cited Palmer’s performance in Chelsea’s recent loss at Brentford as an example, saying:
“Well, I think, whatever his injuries, and if he is injured… I watched his last game against Brentford and if you think he’s going to get England to another level and win trophies, forget about it. I like Palmer, he’s a talented boy, but he’s got far too many bad habits, for me.”
Palmer was fit and played the full 90 minutes in Chelsea’s 3-0 defeat to Brentford. This is the second time Palmer has pulled out of an England squad since Tuchel took over in 2025. But the Chelsea star had an injury-hit 2025-26 campaign, spending several months out with persistent groin and toe complaints.
Tuchel Laments Palmer’s Recurring International Absences
Keane’s criticism came just days after Tuchel said he was frustrated that Palmer was regularly unavailable for international duty. The German tactician said he can only judge players he sees for himself in the England setting.
The England boss spoke earlier this week about Palmer’s absence, saying:
“He misses too many camps. That’s the overall headline.”
However, Tuchel said he did not blame Palmer and cited the matter as an unfortunate fact of life rather than a grievance. Otherwise, the playmaker has started the campaign well, with two goals and two assists in 443 minutes of Premier League football. Palmer also explained in a Twitch livestream that he had been effectively playing on one leg for 10 months.