England head coach Thomas Tuchel says "the door is always open" after recalling Trent Alexander-Arnold and Cole Palmer to his first squad since the World Cup - but has warned players they have to "perform". Tuchel controversially left Real Madrid right-back Alexander-Arnold and Chelsea forward Palmer out of his squad for the summer tournament in North America. Both return for four Nations League games during an extended international break after this weekend's club fixtures.

Alexander-Arnold, 27, won the most recent of his 34 England caps when he came on as a substitute in a 1-0 win against Andorra in June 2025. Tuchel said he had picked the former Liverpool player as a full-back, adding that "[He needs to] perform, that's just what it is. It is a competition" and that it is now time to fight for his place.

On Palmer, Tuchel noted he has his assists back and decisive goals back, adding "I think he has a point to prove, and the same goes for Trent". Tuchel has again omitted Manchester City's Phil Foden. Giving a message to his players, he told BBC Radio 5 Live: "Jordan Henderson said it so professionally well before the match against France - you just never know when your next England match is coming." So, guys, this is it - this is the next England match you play to the fullest, you show up with the right attitude, and you give it your all, because you never know.

It is not even a shout-out to Trent; it is a shout-out to everyone. It's the mentality that we want to have.".