Chelsea’s Xabi Alonso defends Cole Palmer

Xabi Alonso has defended Cole Palmer’s commitment to England after Thomas Tuchel criticized his World Cup omission.

“I can only judge him on what he is delivering for the national team and he’s just missing too many opportunities.”

Palmer missed England World Cup squad

Palmer pulled out of England’s Nations League matches due to injury earlier this year.

Tuchel frustrated with Palmer’s performance

Tuchel appeared frustrated with Palmer, who was a controversial omission from England’s World Cup squad earlier this year.

Chelsea’s recent league form

Chelsea has gone three league games without a win, losing to Arsenal and Brentford either side of a draw with Hull.

Alonso’s fitness advice for Palmer

Alonso said Palmer needs to be fully fit to enjoy his minutes and play for both club and national team.

“He has trained the last week, he has felt better. We didn’t want to rush because we had a lot of time.”

Palmer’s next match

Palmer is expected to feature when Chelsea return to Premier League action against Bournemouth on Saturday.