England Injury Blow: Cole Palmer, Rashford And Mainoo Doubts

Thomas Tuchel is facing an early selection headache after Cole Palmer withdrew from the England squad with a muscle injury, while Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo are also doubts following injuries sustained in the Premier League.

Palmer was recalled by Tuchel after being left out of England's 2026 World Cup squad and had made a strong start to the new season for Chelsea, scoring four goals and providing two assists in seven appearances.

Cole Palmer withdraws after strong Chelsea start

Palmer played the full 90 minutes in Chelsea's defeat to Brentford but will now miss England's upcoming Nations League fixtures against Spain, Czech Republic and Croatia because of a muscle problem.

The 24-year-old had endured an injury-hit 2025-26 campaign but entered the new season believing he was finally back to full fitness.

"Physically I feel good, probably the best I've felt in ages, but I think I can [get fitter] with games and more minutes."

That form had helped Palmer earn his way back into Tuchel's plans after his World Cup omission. His withdrawal therefore deprives England of a player who had begun rebuilding his place in the squad.

Rashford and Mainoo also doubts for England

Palmer is not the only concern for Tuchel.

Marcus Rashford picked up a hip problem during Manchester United's 1-1 draw with Fulham and is also a doubt for the international fixtures.

United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo faces a similar situation after being substituted late in the same match at Craven Cottage.

The three absences would leave Tuchel having to adjust his plans before England's next international camp, particularly with the squad entering a lengthy international break and a run of Nations League fixtures ahead.

For Palmer, the immediate priority will be recovering from the muscle injury after a promising return to regular football. England, meanwhile, must assess the fitness of Rashford and Mainoo before finalising their options for the upcoming matches.