The Chelsea midfielder is locked in direct competition with Phil Foden for the coveted No. 10 role, with both players included in the latest squad.

Tuchel has made it clear that selection will be merit-based, delivering a firm message that Palmer must earn his spot despite his previous impact.

"Honestly, he has to show because we have more evidence without him than with him so the pressure is on him. He had a difficult season but he has also had a difficult spell with the national team," said Tuchel.

"He was only once available for us and when he was available, we decided to stick with the same squad so there is big competition for his best position, number 10. He really tries.

"When I hug him, that means he is smiling otherwise he would not get a hug. He is in good spirits, he is open and he is communicating and is showing his quality.

"He is very engaged in the group and these are very important steps to show the performance to be involved in the group and have connections within the group so he will get his chances during the next matches."

He added: "We have had four training sessions and he needs to show up. He cannot hold back. He needs to understand he fights for his place and we will not hand anything to anyone on a silver platter and he did this in a very nice way in exactly the right way."

The 21-year-old was one of England's standout performers at Euro 2024, but has since struggled for continuity at club level due to a stop-start season disrupted by injury.

Palmer has not featured for England since June last year, with that appearance marking his only cap under Tuchel so far. With strong competition in attacking midfield, the battle for minutes is intensifying.

As England build towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup, performances in these friendlies could prove decisive in shaping Tuchel's long-term plans.

Marc van Heerden extends Cape Town City stay