Cole Palmer was left out of England’s World Cup squad due to Thomas Tuchel’s ‘reservations over his personality.’
The Chelsea star was among the shock absentees from the 26-man group which was officially confirmed at Wembley on Friday morning.
A spate of leaks overnight revealed Palmer, Phil Foden and Harry Maguire to be the most notable victims of a brutal squad cull overseen by Tuchel with Trent Alexander-Arnold, Luke Shaw, Adam Wharton and Morgan Gibbs-White also notable omissions.
Palmer has endured an underwhelming season at Stamford Bridge, barely featuring during the first-half of the campaign as he dealt with a problematic groin injury.
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A return of 10 goals and three assists this term is well short of his haul of 27 and 15 from his debut campaign for Chelsea two seasons ago.
While his indifferent form was thought to be a deciding factor in him failing to get a seat on the plane heading to the United States, there were other factors at play.
The Sun report Tuchel has placed particular emphasis on picking certain personalities for the upcoming competition with the head coach feeling Palmer’s ‘face does not fit.’
Tuchel is said to feel similarly about Foden who, like Palmer, has also endured a difficult season for his club.
Confirmed England squad for 2026 World Cup
Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford, Dean Henderson, James Trafford
Defenders: Ezri Konsa, John Stones, Marc Guehi, Jarell Quansah, Tino Livarmento, Nico O’Reilly, Djed Spence, Reece James
Midfielders: Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Jordan Henderson, Morgan Rogers, Jude Bellingham, Eberechi Eze
Forwards: Harry Kane, Ivan Toney, Ollie Watkins, Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke, Marcus Rashford, Anthony Gordon
England World Cup fixtures
England vs Croatia – Wednesday 17 June, 9pm
England vs Ghana – Tuesday 23 June, 9pm
Panama vs England – Saturday 27 June, 10pm
Dan Burn of Newcastle United and Brentford’s Jordan Henderson were among the surprise inclusions, both serving as elder statesman at 34 and 35 years old respectively.
Both are regarded as influential members of the dressing room.
Maguire meanwhile has already vented his frustration with failing to make the cut.
The centre-half, who has been in excellent form under Michael Carrick at Manchester United, said: ‘I was confident I could of played a major part this summer for my country after the season I’ve had. I’ve been left shocked and gutted by the decision,’ Maguire said.
‘I’ve loved nothing more than putting that shirt on and representing my country over the years. I wish the players, all the best this summer.’