In his first squad as England’s interim manager, Lee Carsley lost three important players on Tuesday night when Cole Palmer, Ollie Watkins, and Phil Foden left the camp ahead of this month’s Nations League matches.

After being evaluated by Three Lions staff at St George’s Park, Chelsea’s Palmer—who scored the game-winning goal for England in the Euro 2024 final—and Aston Villa’s Watkins—who scored the winner in the semi-final—have returned to their clubs to complete rehabilitation for persisting ailments.

Due to illness, Manchester City’s Foden did not report for duty on Tuesday and has since withdrew. This season, Foden has played just 45 minutes for his team. That occurred on the first day when he was brought on at the half of City’s 2-0 victory over Chelsea.

Ahead of their Nations League matches against the Republic of Ireland this Saturday and Finland on Tuesday, England announced on Tuesday night that no more roster additions were currently scheduled.

Palmer and Watkins have started all three of their teams’ Premier League games this season; the problems impacting them have not been disclosed. Palmer had earlier reported having a hamstring issue when Chelsea defeated Servette at home in the Conference League, but head coach Enzo Maresca said it was not a major issue, and Palmer has since made three appearances.

 

Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Ollie Watkins have left England’s team and returned to their respective clubs to receive treatment on ongoing issues

 

England’s camp reported for training on Tuesday as the Three Lions met new interim manager Carsley for the first time

 

While Cole Palmer (right) will return to Chelsea with an injury, Phil Foden (left) is battling illness.

Due to continuous fitness issues, Adam Wharton has also withdrew from his England Under-21 duties. Oliver Glasner, the manager of Crystal Palace, forewarned the Football Association that Wharton’s “issues with his body” made it seem foolish for him to play for his country.

The 20-year-old was unexpectedly left out of Carsley’s initial England team, but Ben Futcher, the temporary manager, did call him up for the Under-21 team. Glasner stated that Wharton, who is reportedly dealing with a groin issue, has not been able to train fully with Palace this season despite starting all three Premier League games.

Wharton was swiftly promoted to the senior team in advance of Euro 2024, having only made one appearance for the Under 21s, that being during a friendly in March.

For the Young Lions’ two games this month—a friendly against Austria three days later and a Euro qualifier in Northern Ireland on Friday night—Carsley had hoped the central midfielder would get more experience playing for his country.