Former Manchester United midfielder, Roy Keane, has criticised Chelsea star Cole Palmer, saying the England international has too many “bad habits” to take the Three Lions to another level.
Palmer was recalled to England’s squad by head coach Thomas Tuchel after missing the 2026 World Cup, but the 24-year-old subsequently withdrew from the team because of a minor injury.
Tuchel had earlier expressed concerns over Palmer’s repeated fitness issues, saying the forward “misses too many camps” and is missing important opportunities to establish himself with the national team.
Keane, speaking ahead of England’s Nations League clash with Spain, questioned whether Palmer could help England win major trophies despite his obvious talent.
“I think, whatever his injuries and if he is injured – I watched his last game against Brentford and if you think he’s going to get England to another level and win trophies, forget about it,” the Manchester United legend declared on ITV. “I like Palmer, he’s a talented boy, but he’s got far too many bad habits for me.”
Palmer was one of five players who withdrew from England’s initial squad, prompting Tuchel to call up Morgan Gibbs-White as his replacement.
Gibbs-White featured as a late substitute in England’s 3-2 defeat to Spain and is expected to get further opportunities during the team’s next three matches.
England still have several options in the No.10 role, including Jude Bellingham, Morgan Rogers, Gibbs-White and Eberechi Eze.
Tuchel said the available players were “desperate to be here” before questioning Palmer’s continued absences.
“All in camp. All desperate to be here. All available. And all ready to go, ready to stop a holiday (like Gibbs-White) after one day in Dubai. I am not his friend. I am his national team coach and I can only judge him on what he is delivering for the national team and he is just missing too many opportunities.”
