Thomas Tuchel explains Cole Palmer's omission from England squad

England head coach Thomas Tuchel has spoken candidly about his decision to omit Chelsea playmaker Cole Palmer from the final 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup.

Tuchel explained that the player did not demonstrate the level of influence he showed in the previous season. According to the manager, the 24-year-old's statistics for his club were simply not outstanding enough to guarantee him a spot in the team regardless of his current form.

He was not as decisive and influential as he was last season throughout the championship. His stats at the club were simply not outstanding, not good enough for him to be in the squad "no matter what." That is the reality. Thomas Tuchel

The manager admitted that the phone call to inform Palmer of the decision was one of the most difficult he had to make. However, Tuchel insisted that he refuses to select players based on their reputation or to play them out of position just to accommodate them.

Palmer has scored 11 goals in 34 appearances for Chelsea this season. Tuchel emphasized that he prefers to make tough decisions early, allowing other players to step up and perform in their natural roles.