Chelsea forward Cole Palmer has opened up about his disappointment with his limited role on the England national team during the Euro 2024 tournament.
Despite his strong season with Chelsea, where he was named both Premier League Young Player of the Season and Chelsea Player of the Year, Palmer did not get a starting spot in England’s lineup.
The 22-year-old expressed frustration at being used as a substitute in all five of his appearances, without being given the opportunity to start a match.
Palmer, who transferred from Manchester City to Chelsea in 2023, had hoped his exceptional season would earn him a greater role for the national team. Instead, England coach Gareth Southgate favored other players, leaving Palmer on the sidelines even when the team struggled in their first two games.
Palmer shared his thoughts with GQ, explaining, “It was frustrating at England, to be fair… Not to say that the players aren’t good.” However, he believed his season’s form warranted more trust and time on the field.
Palmer described the experience as challenging, especially watching from the bench while other substitutes, like striker Ollie Watkins, got opportunities in crucial moments. Reflecting on his feeling during the final game, he admitted he wondered why he wasn’t selected, noting, “If you bring me on [in] the third game and I don’t do anything, then I can’t really say anything.”
