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Before their final friendlies for Euro 2024, England faces a setback and a chance, as three additional players are facing injuries and are expected to sit out the upcoming match against Brazil – one of whom is team captain Harry Kane.
The striker for Bayern Munich and winger Bukayo Saka will both be absent from the team due to an injury. Arsenal’s star player had a hamstring problem and returned to his club earlier this week.
Gareth Southgate announced that Kane is not expected to play in either game during the international hiatus as the English team prepares to take on Belgium on Tuesday.
Additionally, Chelsea’s in-form Cole Palmer and new Ajax signing Jordan Henderson are set to sit out the weekend clash with the Selecao. Southgate was left lamenting the fact that up to a dozen players were unavailable for selection as the summer tournament draws close.
“Unfortunately, we will not have Kane, Henderson, or Palmer for tomorrow’s match. Bukayo arrived with a hamstring issue and was unable to train, so he has returned home. However, the rest of the team is fit and ready to play,” stated the England manager.
Some individuals have not had much playing time in the past couple of weeks, but everyone else has been able to fully participate in training with our team. Many players in the league have also been dealing with a significant number of injuries. While many seek a straightforward answer, a few players have simply been unlucky with their injuries.
Kane collided with the goal and sustained an injury to his ankle. Other players have also experienced a string of injuries, possibly due to playing too many games after returning from previous injuries. The intensity of matches and added playing time could be contributing factors to these injuries.
“We have an extensive roster of 40 players, and one-third of them are unable to play. This is the largest number of unavailable players we have ever had, without a doubt. There is also a possibility that Kane will not be able to participate in the second game, but we will have more information on Sunday regarding the other players.”
It is likely that Harry Kane will not participate in either match this week.
Southgate is facing a less than perfect situation as he tries to assemble his top team for the June event in Germany. Despite this, he acknowledges that it presents a chance for players on the outskirts to showcase their abilities and earn a spot before the season ends.
Southgate emphasized that while a strong performance against Brazil or Belgium may improve some players’ chances of being selected for the Euros team, their domestic performance will continue to hold significant weight.
“We want to avoid injuries, but they also present an opportunity for other players. The timing of the game and its place in the schedule plays a role – the players are aware of the potential opportunities, but it is not solely dependent on these games. It also depends on how they perform with their clubs for the rest of the season. Handling this pressure is a crucial aspect of being an England player,” he further commented.
Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo may be one player who could take advantage of the squad absences. Due to England’s limited choices in the midfield, Mainoo has been recently promoted to the senior team and has already made a favorable impression.
“We like him as a player, we’re mindful of his age and his rapid progress,” Southgate said. “With any young player you’re wanting to make steps at the right time but with the issues we’ve had, with Hendo as well this week, he’s the next one in. He hasn’t surprised us and his comfort in possession is clear to see. He’s keen to learn and has made a really good impression.”
Source: independent.co.uk
