England unveil 26 player roster for World Cup with Alexander Arnold and Palmer omitted by Tuchel
Palmer, who netted in the 2 1 loss to Spain during the EURO 2024 final, is among two prominent Chelsea figures excluded, alongside Levi Colwill, still sidelined by a persistent knee issue.
Alexander Arnold finds himself overlooked once more by Tuchel, absent from all squads this year under the German's tenure. The ex Liverpool player has seen merely 27 minutes of action and will observe the tournament from home.
Following Harry Maguire's admission of surprise at his exclusion from warm up fixtures against New Zealand and Costa Rica, Tuchel selected Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, John Stones, and Dan Burn as central defenders. Jarell Quansah secures a spot despite an average season with Bayer Leverkusen.
In an official statement, Tuchel remarked, "Selecting England's World Cup squad is both thrilling and an honour. The decision process was challenging, yet I have complete faith in this team.
"Each player merits their selection. Together with the squad and support staff, we aim to make the nation proud. We feel the country's support and anticipate a memorable summer."
Defensive choices sparked much debate pre announcement, with Nico O'Reilly and Djed Spence named as left back options, while Tino Livramento and Reece James vie for the right back slot.
Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton misses out, as does Phil Foden after a subdued season with Manchester City. Morgan Gibbs White, despite a late season upturn with Nottingham Forest, also fails to make the cut.
Jordan Pickford is set to feature in his fifth tournament, with James Trafford and Dean Henderson as goalkeeping alternatives.
In attack, Ivan Toney's inclusion surprises. Despite contributing to England's EURO final journey two years prior, the Al Ahli striker, formerly of Brentford, returns after a prolific season, scoring 42 goals across competitions.
England, quarter finalists in Qatar four years ago, commence their campaign against Croatia in Group L on June 17, followed by encounters with Ghana on June 23 and Panama on June 27.
England squad
Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford (Everton), Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), James Trafford (Manchester City)
Defenders: Nico O'Reilly (Manchester City), Djed Spence (Tottenham Hotspur), Marc Guehi (Manchester City), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Dan Burn (Newcastle), John Stones (Manchester City), Jarell Quansah (Bayer Leverkusen), Reece James (Chelsea), Tino Livramento (Newcastle)
Midfielders: Declan Rice (Arsenal), Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United), Jordan Henderson (Brentford), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Eberechi Eze (Arsenal), Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa)
Attackers: Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Ivan Toney (Al Ahli), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Noni Madueke (Arsenal), Marcus Rashford (Barcelona, on loan from Manchester United), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle)