England play against Switzerland this Saturday in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024.
Does Chelsea star Cole Palmer stand any chance of starting for England, though?
Based on the Euros so far, Palmer will have to be content with a spot on the bench again.
The 22-year-old attacker is yet to start any of England’s four matches in this tournament, coming off the bench in just two of them.
All eyes will be on Three lions boss Gareth Southgate to see his team selection against the Swiss.
Paul Merson doesn’t expect Cole Palmer to start against Switzerland
Paul Merson suggests that Chelsea’s Palmer is unlikely to come into the starting line-up for the quarter-finals versus Switzerland.
The only way he pictures him starting is if Bukayo Saka vacates the right wing position and is deployed at left-back.
When previewing England vs Switzerland, Merson told Sportskseeda: “Ivan Toney played the other day because they needed a goal with a few minutes left on the clock. It was horses for courses on that day but it is different from starting games, so I can’t see them making too many changes.
“For the same reason, I think the impressive Cole Palmer will have to settle for a place on the bench, unless Bukayo Saka is deployed at left-back, of course.”
Chelsea star can add extra creativity
Palmer’s shown glimpses of his quality with his two England cameos so far at the Euros. You’ll surely get the best from him if he’s in from the start, though.
While many remember Palmer’s stunning debut season at Chelsea for his goalscoring, don’t forget he’s also a playmaker that can pick a pass and create lots of chances.
He provided 15 assists in 45 games across all competitions last year for Chelsea.
If England want more joy going forward against Switzerland, start Palmer.
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