Joe Cole wants Chelsea man to replace Arsenal star in England team

Joe Cole has named his ideal England lineup for the 2026 World Cup, notably selecting Cole Palmer ahead of Bukayo Saka on the right wing.

Saka has consistently been one of the first names on the England team sheet, regularly starting in important matches and playing a key role in the squad. While Palmer is undoubtedly a talented player, he has yet to establish himself at international level and does not currently hold the same importance to the team as Saka.

Cole’s Tactical Preference

Thomas Tuchel has generally preferred options such as Saka or Noni Madueke in wide positions, but Cole believes Palmer offers a different tactical advantage. Speaking via the Metro, he explained:

“I would have Jude Bellingham as the No. 10 but if he isn’t performing, you can quite easily make a change there.

“I would have Cole Palmer coming in from the right like he’s been doing at Chelsea, releasing him up, and almost playing two number tens. A midfield of Rice, Anderson, Bellingham, Palmer has power, ability and goals.”

Cole’s comments highlight his preference for a more fluid attacking system, where Palmer operates in a role that allows him to drift inside and influence play centrally.

Debate Over Selection

Despite Palmer’s quality, his performances for the national team have not been consistently convincing, and he has also faced challenges in maintaining form at club level in recent months. As a result, selecting him ahead of Saka remains a contentious decision.

Although Saka has not been at his best recently, he continues to offer reliability, experience and a proven track record in international football. His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations makes him a valuable asset for England.

Ultimately, while Cole’s selection reflects a specific tactical vision, many would argue that Saka remains the stronger option for the national team, particularly given his established role and consistent contributions over time.