Cole Palmer’s talent is not in question, but his place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad certainly is.

The Chelsea midfielder is unlikely to feature in Tuchel’s next international selection after withdrawing from the previous camp, having been expected to play a key role following his omission from the World Cup squad.

If Palmer is left out when the squad is announced tomorrow, the decision will carry even greater significance given Bukayo Saka’s injury. With a place on the right wing potentially up for grabs, Palmer is competing with the likes of Noni Madueke and Rio Ngumoha for selection.

Tuchel has made it clear in previous media duties that he wants to base his decisions on what he sees in the England camp. A player who repeatedly misses international camps cannot expect to be selected on reputation alone, regardless of their talent. Unfortunately for Palmer, that is the situation he currently finds himself in.

The German manager spoken about the importance of time on the training pitch, allowing him to assess players in his own environment rather than from a distance. Palmer has missed too many of those opportunities through injury, so the manager's thinking is understandable.

His club numbers remain impressive, and Chelsea supporters know just how much the team's attack depends on him. However, international football is a different challenge. England's system places considerable emphasis on the central areas, where Palmer faces competition from Jude Bellingham and other options. He is unlikely to displace Bellingham or be considered the obvious backup in that position.

There are also plenty of alternatives for Tuchel to consider. Noni Madueke has performed well, Marcus Tavernier deserves an opportunity, and Rio Ngumoha could be an option if he is willing to move away from his preferred position on the left. Palmer is not short of competition, particularly while he is still working to rediscover his best form.

The last argument is based around fairness. Other players have turned up, trained and made their case during the same camps Palmer has missed. You could argue that he prioritised a holiday with his partner or focused on recovering from his injury, but either way, he has not been available when there have been suggestions that he could have been.

Palmer should not take the omission personally. Tuchel has made it clear that he does not blame him for his injuries, and that distinction is important. This is not a judgement on his ability, but rather on how little international football he has been able to play recently. The way back is straightforward: stay fit, make himself consistently available and give Tuchel the evidence he needs to justify his selection.

That is also the best outcome for Chelsea. A fit Palmer is worth far more to the club than a call-up that adds to a heavy schedule, and a strong run of availability would make Tuchel’s decision for him.

Until then, Palmer’s absence from the England squad is fair, and it is his to step up further and make the German boss change that decision.