Chelsea’s Cole Palmer, who scored in the 2-0 win over Everton, stated that he is solely focused on regaining full fitness from a three-month groin injury and is not looking ahead to the 2026 England World Cup squad despite the presence of coach Thomas Tuchel.
Cole Palmer insisted his sole focus is on achieving full fitness at Chelsea after scoring in their 2-0 victory over Everton.
The England international netted the opening goal at Stamford Bridge, which helped end the Blues’ four-game winless run.
The strike marked Palmer’s fifth Premier League goal against Everton, his joint-most against a single opponent in the competition.
Despite England head coach Thomas Tuchel watching from the stands, Palmer is not preoccupied with making the 2026 World Cup squad just yet, following a recent three-month absence due to a groin issue.
He told BBC Match of the Day: “I’ve not been looking too far ahead to be honest. I’ve been injured for three months, I just need to get back to full fitness.”
Palmer conceded he is not yet at his “best” while dealing with the lingering injury, explaining that his recovery is a gradual process.
“I wouldn’t say I’m at my best yet. I’m still dealing with an injury… It’s just a matter of not doing too much too soon,” he added.
He remains confident in his ability once fully fit, which he is working “day by day” to achieve.