We’re delighted to say the November international break is over, and that players all over the world are returning to their clubs this week to prepare for this weekend. There are no more breaks until March.

It’s great for us, but some players won’t be delighted – and that will include Cole Palmer. The attacking midfielder has missed all 3 of the international breaks since the start of the season, and now won’t get a chance to feature for Thomas Tuchel’s team again in 2025.

Cole Palmer has uphill battle to prove himself for Tuchel

Cole Palmer in Chelsea warmups. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

He has precious little time to prove to the England boss that he should be in the mix for the World Cup next summer. All the evidence of the last few years is that he’s one of the Three Lions’ most talented attackers, but he’s had just one cameo for the new manager, and won’t really get another chance to prove himself.

The fact that England have won every game under their latest coach makes it hard to see him changing everything up to fit Palmer in, too.

Perhaps the attacker is simply going to have to be a super sub to start the tournament and try to work his way into the frame from there?

Surely he won’t be left out of the squad entirely? Either way, his incoming return to action with Chelsea needs to go really well to avoid any difficulties.

In other news…

Nicolas Jackson’s future is back in the frame after the striker’s latest lack of start for Bayern. There’s been talk of a January recall, but neither party is keen on that according to a top insider.

Matt Law has shut down any dreams Chelsea fans had of signing either of two Real Madrid attackers who have been linked with moves away from the club this winter.