Injured Harry Kane Out of England’s Nations League Showdown with Greece

England’s interim manager, Lee Carsley, has confirmed that Harry Kane will not be part of the starting line-up for Thursday’s Nations League match against Greece as the captain is recovering from an injury. Kane sustained the injury during Bayern Munich’s 3-3 draw with Eintracht Frankfurt last weekend.

The 31-year-old, who holds the record as England’s all-time top goal-scorer, has been unable to train with the squad since arriving on Monday. Instead, Kane has been following a personal training program over the past two days. Carsley stressed that he would not risk Kane’s fitness in the Group B2 match at Wembley.

“Harry is dealing with a small injury, and we won’t take any unnecessary risks with him,” Carsley told reporters on Wednesday.

When asked if Kane might be available as a substitute, Carsley responded, “We haven’t completely ruled him out, but he won’t start the game. Hopefully, he’ll be available for Sunday’s match against Finland, but we’ll have to see. It’s not something we want to rush.”

In Kane’s absence, Manchester City defender John Stones will captain the England team for the first time on Thursday. Carsley praised Stones, saying, “It’s a fantastic achievement for John, and it’s well deserved. With the number of caps he has, his experience, and his professionalism, he’s a great example for the younger players.”

Ahead of earning his 82nd cap, Stones shared his excitement about leading his country at Wembley. “It’s a childhood dream come true,” said the 30-year-old. “For my family to watch me walk out as England captain is an incredibly special moment, and I’m grateful to Lee for the opportunity. Wearing the armband is an absolute honor and something I will always cherish.”

Meanwhile, Stones’ Manchester City teammate Jack Grealish could miss the game after picking up a slight knock in training on Wednesday. Carsley confirmed, “Jack had a minor injury yesterday, and we won’t take any risks with our players.”

Chelsea forward Cole Palmer, who was recently named England’s men’s Player of the Year, is expected to make his first competitive start for England. The 22-year-old has been in outstanding form, scoring six goals for Chelsea this season. Carsley, who has worked with Palmer for several years, praised his progress. “Cole’s in excellent form, and he’s carried that into this week. He’s an exciting player, and he, along with several others, has put himself in a strong position to start tomorrow.”

Greece’s head coach, Ivan Jovanovic, noted that England has evolved under Carsley compared to the team that reached the Euro 2024 final under Gareth Southgate. “Southgate did a lot for English football, but the style has shifted slightly with Lee Carsley,” Jovanovic said. “The team now plays a more possession-based game, and the players have greater creative freedom. Wembley is iconic in world football, but we’re not here for a sightseeing tour.”