Rogers Defends Palmer Against Questions Over England Commitment

Morgan Rogers has dismissed suggestions that Chelsea teammate Cole Palmer is reluctant to represent England, attributing his recent international absences to persistent injuries and the need to manage his fitness.

Daniel Momodu · November 13, 2026 · 43

England forward Morgan Rogers has defended Chelsea teammate Cole Palmer against criticism over his commitment to international football, insisting that the midfielder remains eager to represent his country.

Rogers spoke after scoring the opening goal in England's 2-1 victory over Croatia in their UEFA Nations League encounter at Wembley on Thursday.

Palmer was left out of England's November squad after withdrawing from previous international fixtures because of recurring injury problems, prompting questions about his willingness to play for the national team.

However, Rogers dismissed the suggestions, telling BBC Radio 5 Live that Palmer had always wanted to receive international call-ups and represent England.

He said the 24-year-old had endured a difficult period with injuries over the past year and had been managing his physical condition to regain full fitness.

According to Rogers, Palmer's decision to manage his workload should not be interpreted as a lack of commitment to England, stressing that the player wants to maintain his career at the highest level for another 10 to 15 years.

He urged critics to support his teammate's efforts to protect his fitness rather than question his patriotism or desire to play for the national team.

Rogers described the criticism as unfair, maintaining that Palmer's enthusiasm for football and desire to represent England remained evident.

England manager Thomas Tuchel also defended Rogers' comments, saying the forward was entitled to speak up for his teammate and friend.

Tuchel praised Rogers' performance against Croatia, describing him as England's standout player in the encounter.

England took the lead through Rogers before Croatia equalised through Petar Sucic. Captain Harry Kane subsequently converted a penalty to secure the victory.

The result confirmed England's qualification for the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals scheduled for March 2027.

England will face Spain in Madrid on Sunday in their final group-stage fixture, with victory potentially securing top spot in Group A3.