Why I recalled Palmer, Trent to England squad — Tuchel
by Moronfolu Adeyemi · The Eagle OnlineEngland manager Thomas Tuchel has explained why he recalled Cole Palmer and Trent Alexander-Arnold to his latest Three Lions squad after both players missed the recent World Cup campaign.
Tuchel said the pair had made strong starts to the 2026-27 season and insisted their previous omissions were not because they had done anything wrong.
Tuchel said: “They had a good start to the season.
“They never did something wrong.
“We just chose different players.
“So now it is a new competition, some players, some positions have more injuries, some have less injuries.
“But, Cole has his start that he always had but he has his numbers back, he has his assists back, he has decisive goals back so that is why he is in the squad.
“I think he has a point to prove and the same goes for Trent.”
Palmer has returned to the international fold after rediscovering his form, while Alexander-Arnold has impressed since moving to Real Madrid and has shown his versatility in two positions.
Explaining his plans for Alexander-Arnold, Tuchel said the defender had never been ruled out of his plans and would now have the opportunity to fight for his place.
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He said: “He was never off the list, he was never non-selectable for us and it is his chance to show, come to camp and be the best version of himself. He had a good start in two positions for Real Madrid and he comes as a right-back for us.”
The England manager also defended his earlier decision to leave Alexander-Arnold out of the World Cup squad, stressing that the defender must compete for his place.
Tuchel said: “[He needs to] Perform, that’s just what it is. It is a competition and I understand the question because he was not with us at the World Cup. We trusted other players.”
He added: “I still stick with this decision and it is now time to fight for his place.
“He always said he is up for a fight, he always said he is up to fight for his place, especially for England so it is on him to prove and he is more than welcome in camp.
“We have a long camp and I am sure he will show up.”
Palmer and Alexander-Arnold are among the headline returns to Tuchel’s squad as England prepare for their upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures.
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