How Palmer and Foden lost ruthless Tuchel's battle for number 10 roles

Palmer had been the new kid on the block in Gareth Southgate's squad two years ago - after only making his first start in a pre-tournament friendly against Bosnia-Herzegovina. Yet as Euro 2024 progressed, Palmer being left sitting on the bench was viewed as an indicator of Southgate's negative approach. When Palmer came on against Spain, he equalised after just three minutes.

Vindication for Southgate's critics. Palmer was only 22 at the time and went on to be named England's men's player of the year and the PFA young player of the year. He had to be the future of England, a player who would be part of every tournament squad for years to come. Foden, then 23, would be with him every step of the way. He won the senior PFA award that year - and it was fitting that the duo would collect their trophies at the Opera House in Manchester. But while class may be permanent, form - for now - is temporary and this has cost both players a place at the World Cup. Palmer scored 37 Premier League goals in his first two seasons at Chelsea. But his form dipped this season. He still bagged nine goals in 25 Premier League appearances, but there was not the same zip or flash of brilliance. Those moments that had defined him had deserted him. Foden's form has suffered just as badly as Palmer's - though over a longer period. He netted six goals in five games during a purple patch just before Christmas.

Key points

• Vindication for Southgate's critics.
• Palmer was only 22 at the time and went on to be named England's men's player of the year and the PFA young player of the year.
• He had to be the future of England, a player who would be part of every tournament squad for years to come.
• Foden, then 23, would be with him every step of the way.
• He won the senior PFA award that year - and it was fitting that the duo would collect their trophies at the Opera House in Manchester.