Alonso 'very happy' with Palmer despite England snub

Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso expressed strong support for Cole Palmer, stating he is 'very happy' with the 24-year-old's quality, attitude, and impact on the team despite Palmer being omitted from Thomas Tuchel's England squad for upcoming matches against Croatia and Spain. Tuchel cited Palmer 'missing too many opportunities' to impress as a reason for his exclusion, following Palmer's withdrawal from the October international squad while he continued to play for Chelsea. Palmer had also been left out of England's World Cup squad after a season affected by injuries and loss of form.