Ferdinand backs Palmer as Keane doubts his Lions chances

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has called Chelsea forward Cole Palmer a ‘precocious talent’ who should be a key player for England after Roy Keane publicly questioned his suitability.

Palmer, 24, was omitted from England’s World Cup squad earlier this summer but was named by Thomas Tuchel in the latest squad for the three‑week international break.

Tuchel’s disappointment over Palmer’s withdrawal

Tuchel later confirmed that Palmer pulled out of the squad because he was playing with ‘discomfort and pain’, meaning he could not compete at the highest level. The Germany‑born coach said the Chelsea talisman ‘misses too many opportunities’ and that his absence is a missed chance for the Three Lions.

Mick Brown warns Cole Palmer may miss England chances under Tuchel

Ferdinand rebuts Keane’s assessment

Keane, a former Manchester United captain, had criticised Palmer ahead of England’s Nations League defeat to Spain, saying the player’s injuries and ‘bad habits’ meant he could not lift the side to another level. Ferdinand responded on his YouTube channel, insisting Palmer offers something different – the ability to slice through defensive units and a rare vision on the ball.

Ferdinand praised Palmer’s composure on big stages, his confidence and his ‘arrogance’ that he believes benefits the squad, adding that while fitness is essential, the youngster deserves a place in the England camp.

England’s next fixture in the break is against the Czech Republic in Prague on Tuesday night, giving Tuchel another chance to assess his options ahead of future competitions.