Morgan Rogers has firmly dismissed suggestions that Cole Palmer lacks commitment to the England team, branding the claims “a lie” and “nonsense”.
Rogers netted the opening goal in Wednesday’s 2-1 UEFA Nations League victory over Croatia, a match that also saw Harry Kane convert a penalty on his record-extending 126th appearance for the men’s senior side.
Palmer, Rogers’ Chelsea team-mate and childhood friend, was not included in the squad after head coach Thomas Tuchel remarked that he “misses too many chances to impress.”
The 24-year-old was also overlooked for the World Cup and had withdrawn from the previous England camp in September due to a minor injury.
Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live after the Wembley win, the 24-year-old forward addressed the scrutiny surrounding Palmer: “He wants to be here. He wanted to get called up and to represent his country, just as he always has.”
“He was in a difficult place with his injuries last year and didn’t feel like his true self on the pitch. So he wants to be here, and he wants to be the best version of himself.”
“But he also has to look after his body. He wants to play for another 10 or 15 years, which means managing himself. If he has to take a short-term step back for the greater good, then that’s what he has to do, and we fully support it.”
“It has nothing to do with England or not wanting to play for his country. It’s nonsense that people question someone who clearly wants to represent England. It’s a lie.”
“You can see the joy and the smile on his face, and how much he loves the game. I honestly don’t understand it, and neither does he.”
