Cole Palmer hands Chelsea welcome boost as star returns to England training ahead of Belgium
Chelsea have been given a big boost with Cole Palmer returning to training.
Palmer was absent from England's 1-0 loss to Brazil at Wembley on Saturday night, but has now re-joined the squad for training ahead of Tuesday's friendly match against Belgium. This will reassure Mauricio Pochettino, with Chelsea set to play Burnley on Saturday as Premier League action resumes after the international break.
Palmer missed the Brazil match due to a small injury, but he could now feature against Belgium and earn his third England cap. The former Manchester City man has been in sensational form for Chelsea this season, making 37 appearances. In that time Palmer has scored 16 goals and set up 12.
Jordan Henderson also appears to be in contention for England's match against Belgium after returning to training, but Kyle Walker and Harry Maguire have withdrawn after starting against Brazil on Saturday. The pair and back-up goalkeeper Sam Johnstone are dealing with injuries, which has led to Rico Lewis and James Trafford being moved across from the Under-21s.
Skipper Harry Kane and Arsenal star Bukayo Saka had already withdrawn from an absentee-hit final camp before the Euros. Gareth Southgate has said he is looking forward to seeing new players in action for the Three Lions.
“Belgium have played a different 11 probably, or close to, so they’re going to be a bit fresher,” the England boss said after the Red Devils drew 0-0 away to the Republic of Ireland on Saturday. “But similar to (Brazil) we’re talking about a high-level game, brilliant experience for the players, a chance to see new players again, build towards the summer.
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