Potential England debutant and recall candidates discussed ahead of upcoming matches

England have carried out medical examinations on 24‑year‑old Chelsea forward Cole Palmer as manager Thomas Tuchel finalises his squad for the Friday fixtures against Croatia and Spain. The checks follow Palmer missing four matches in the previous international window because of a minor injury.

Palmer completed a full 90 minutes for Chelsea against Brentford before the international break and started for the Blues in the first game after the window. His involvement suggests he is close to full fitness.

Tuchel, who announced the squad, said Palmer was "playing with discomfort and pain" but was "missing too many opportunities" with England, according to the coach. The forward's inclusion therefore remains uncertain.

The injury absence of Bukayo Saka opens a slot for another attacker, with Arsenal teammate Noni Madueke pressing for a recall after a string of impressive performances. Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has not featured since mid‑October and is deemed unfit for selection, while Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah remains a major injury doubt. Defenders Ben White and Djed Spence are also vying for recalls after missing the previous squad through injury.

Players such as Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice are regarded as automatic selections, leaving only a few places for potential newcomers. BBC Sport outlines the list of possible candidates for the final England roster.