England captain Harry Kane is expected to be surprisingly benched by interim manager Lee Carsley for the upcoming Nations League clash against Greece in Athens. Despite traveling with the squad and showing no signs of injury, Kane’s omission has stirred tension in a squad already hit by multiple withdrawals.
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In Carsley’s experimental lineup, Ollie Watkins is set to take the No. 9 spot, as the manager opts for a fresh approach in a game where England needs a two-goal win to reclaim the top of their group.
Kane has voiced concerns about some players possibly prioritizing club duties over the national team, reflecting a change in culture from the enthusiasm instilled by Gareth Southgate.
Carsley has faced a string of withdrawals, with key players like Declan Rice, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Bukayo Saka absent, leaving him to potentially field newcomers such as Curtis Jones and Lewis Hall.
Despite the pressure, Carsley promises an aggressive, attacking lineup against Greece. He also rebuffed claims from Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, who criticized the selection of Jack Grealish, insisting communication between England’s and clubs’ medical teams remains strong.
Kane, meanwhile, expressed optimism about Thomas Tuchel’s appointment as Southgate’s successor, highlighting Tuchel’s tactical brilliance and winning mentality as crucial for England’s tournament hopes.