Paul Merson Explains Why Cole Palmer Missed England World Cup Squad

Published

5 months ago

May 26, 2026

Cole Palmer England World Cup Squad omission explained by Paul Merson, who links Chelsea changes to England selection decision

Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has suggested that Chelsea forward Cole Palmer was left out of England’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to the absence of teammate Nicolas Jackson.

Also read: Messi Injury Scare Sparks World Cup Fitness Concern

England manager Thomas Tuchel recently announced his squad for the tournament, with notable omissions including Palmer, Phil Foden and Harry Maguire.

Merson shared his views while speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, where he argued that Palmer’s performances were closely linked to the presence of Jackson at Chelsea.

According to him, the chemistry between both players significantly influenced Palmer’s output, making Jackson’s absence a key factor in his dip in form and subsequent exclusion.

“I have said it before, Palmer made Jackson and Jackson made Palmer,” Merson said.

“Palmer’s not on that plane [to the World Cup] because Jackson’s not been there.”

The comments have sparked debate among fans and analysts over the criteria used in national team selection, particularly as England prepare for a major international tournament.

Also read: Luis de la Fuente Names Strong Spain Squad for World Cup

Cole Palmer’s omission remains one of the most discussed decisions in Tuchel’s squad announcement.

Up Next

Manchester City Appoint Enzo Maresca as New Head Coach

Don't Miss

Gary Neville Predicts PSG Will Dominate Arsenal in Champions League Final

Mariam Balogun

Click to comment

Sanwo-Olu Surprises Wife Ibijoke With Flowers at Women’s Conference

Published

9 hours ago

October 27, 2026

Peculiar Adirika

Sanwo-Olu surprises wife Ibijoke with flowers and shares a kiss at COWLSO’s 26th Annual National Women’s Conference in Lagos

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu surprised his wife, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, with flowers before sharing a kiss with her at the opening ceremony of the 26th Annual National Women’s Conference in Lagos on Tuesday.

Also read: 37 Miners’ Deaths: Panel Finds Fatal Asphyxiation in NSCDC Custody

The event was organised by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) under the theme, “Anchored in Purpose: Be the Blueprint.”

Sanwo-Olu presented the flowers to his wife during his speech at the conference, which brings together women and leaders for discussions and activities focused on women’s empowerment and leadership.

“On behalf of COWLSO and everything that is decent, we want to appreciate you, we want to honour you,” the governor said.

The couple subsequently shared a kiss as Nigerian singer 2Baba’s song, “African Queen”, played at the event.

The conference aims to inspire women, empower leaders and promote a purposeful future through discussions and activities centred on women’s development.