Chelsea forward Morgan Rogers has launched a strong defence of team-mate Cole Palmer, calling suggestions that he does not want to play for England "a lie" and "nonsense". Rogers scored the opener in England's 2-1 Uefa Nations League win over Croatia at Wembley, with Harry Kane adding a penalty on his record-breaking 126th appearance for the men's side.

Palmer, who was left out of the squad by manager Thomas Tuchel, has faced questions about his commitment since the boss said in September that he "misses too many chances to impress". Palmer, 24, was also not called up for the World Cup, where England lost to Argentina in the semi-finals, and withdrew from the previous camp citing a minor injury. Tuchel later said the omission was "not personal" and that the competition for places was the reason.S1S2

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Rogers said Palmer wanted to be called up and represent his country, and described a difficult injury-hit year for his childhood friend. He said Palmer had been in a low place last year and was now managing his body so he could play for 10 to 15 years. "You see the joy and smile on his face, how much he loves the game, so I honestly don't get it and he doesn't get it," Rogers said.S1S2

Palmer has won 14 England caps and scored two goals, one of them in the Euro 2024 final defeat by Spain, while scoring 50 Premier League goals with 24 assists for Chelsea. He has featured in only three of Tuchel's 27 games since succeeding Gareth Southgate as manager, and last appeared in the March internationals. Tuchel has said the "door was always open" for him.S1S2