Tuchel names England squad, omitting Palmer, Foden and Mainoo

Thomas Tuchel has named England’s squad for the November Nations League fixtures against Croatia and Spain, leaving out Cole Palmer, Phil Foden and Kobbie Mainoo while giving Jobe Bellingham and Josh King their first senior call-ups. The selections set up senior debuts for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jobe Bellingham, brother of Jude Bellingham, and Fulham midfielder King. Jude Bellingham is also in the squad. The group includes 25 players, according to the announcement coverage. Tuchel said Palmer’s absence was not a question of fitness. He said England had checked with Chelsea and received confirmation that the forward was available, but that Palmer misses opportunities to impress when he is not with the national team. Tuchel described the decision as non-personal and said competition for places was a factor. Palmer withdrew from England’s previous camp, and Tuchel had criticised the missed opportunity to work with him there. England also carried out medical checks on Palmer before deciding whether to select him. The reports do not establish how much Tuchel’s stated concern about missed camps, rather than other selection considerations, determined the decision. Foden, of...