England have already withdrawn Bukayo Saka from the squad for this weekend's friendly with Brazil – and now captain Harry Kane will play no part after suffering an injury.
England national team coach Gareth Southgate confirmed that an injury kept Harry Kane out of the Three Lions' match against Brazil.
The Bayern Munich forward is one of three players sidelined, with Cole Palmer and Jordan Henderson also missing. He was in trouble after colliding with the post before the international break.
Southgate has ruled out his participation in the Wembley clash on Saturday, while also questioning his ability to play against Belgium next week. Speaking in a press conference ahead of Saturday's match with Brazil, Southgate said: “Tomorrow, there will be no Harry Kane, no Jordan Henderson. No Cole Palmer. I would say Cole and Hendo have a better chance in Belgium than Harry. It would be very doubtful.” “. For this.”
Asked how increasing injuries would affect his plans for the current international break, he replied: “It means it's a great opportunity for some players. We need to see some other players before the European Championship.”
“If we're playing lower teams, you'll still have that little question in your mind if they play well: ‘Okay, how are they going to be against the next level of opposition?’ From our point of view, it's a great exercise and a good experience.” A really great opportunity.”
Kane has had an impressive record for England since making his debut in March 2015. He has scored 62 goals in 89 international appearances and is now the Three Lions' all-time top goalscorer.
Bayern Munich will keep hoping he can return to action after the international break. The German giant faces fierce rival Borussia Dortmund at the end of the month and aims to keep its hopes of winning the Bundesliga title alive. They also have a Champions League quarter-final with Arsenal on the horizon.
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Back in England, Kane's absence gives the opportunity for someone else to lead the Three Lions' line. The most obvious candidates are Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins or Brentford's Ivan Toney.
Kane's injury constitutes another blow to Southgate and England. Arsenal star Bukayo Saka was initially named in the squad but was forced to withdraw as a precaution.
A statement issued by the FA said: “Bukayo Saka has left the England camp and returned to his club to continue his rehabilitation. The Arsenal striker has reported injury to St George’s Park and has been unable to participate in training.”
He added: “There are no plans for more substitutions, as the 25-man England team continues its preparations for the next two international matches with Brazil and Belgium.”
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