England manager Thomas Tuchel has issued a worrying warning for Cole Palmer, admitting the Chelsea star’s World Cup hopes are under threat due to ongoing injury issues.
Speaking ahead of England’s fixtures against Wales and Latvia, Tuchel said Palmer’s recurring groin problem remains a major concern.
“He was only in the June camp, that is concerning, of course,” Tuchel said. “The groin issue is a very dangerous one to become chronic. The most important thing is that he can play without pain.”
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Palmer has missed five of England’s last seven camps and will sit out both upcoming matches. Tuchel added that while Palmer’s talent is unquestioned, his lack of availability is a problem with just two international camps left before the World Cup.
The 23-year-old first suffered the injury after Chelsea’s Club World Cup win and was rushed back to face Manchester United in September, only to come off after 21 minutes.
Tuchel also admitted he doubts Palmer will be fit for Chelsea’s trip to Nottingham Forest on October 18. “It would surprise me this time if he was able to play,” he said.
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca confirmed Palmer would rest through the October break, missing clashes with Brighton, Liverpool, Benfica and Lincoln, as the club manage the issue without surgery.
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There was fresh concern after teammate Jarrel Hato accidentally jumped into Palmer during celebrations against Liverpool, with TV cameras showing the midfielder grimacing and clutching his groin.
With limited time left before the World Cup, Palmer’s injury troubles are threatening to derail his hopes of starring for England in next summer’s tournament.