Frank Christian
During the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland this November, England faces a significant number of player absences, much to captain Harry Kane’s displeasure.
A total of nine players on the England squad have withdrawn due to various fitness issues after being initially selected for the matches.
A series of disappointing outcomes has led to England’s relegation from League A, and now they risk not finishing at the top of their League B group, which would forfeit their opportunity to return to the top division.
This situation has caused frustration for Kane, prompting him to address the matter publicly. He has urged players recovering from injuries to reconsider their priorities.
The Sporting News outlines what is causing Kane’s frustration and identifies the players involved.
Why did Harry Kane express frustration with England players?
As the captain of the England team, Harry Kane is responsible for advocating for the squad, whether supporting them or holding them accountable when necessary.
With the November international break approaching, Kane found himself addressing the challenges presented by numerous late withdrawals that left the team with a weakened roster.
Kane believes it’s inappropriate for players to use international breaks primarily for rest, prioritizing club fitness over national duty. He asserts that international assignments should take precedence, and that players should manage their fitness in other ways.
“It’s disappointing to see so many absentees this week,” Kane remarked. “This time of the season is challenging, and perhaps some players are taking advantage of that. I don’t like it, to be honest; representing England is the top priority.”
Which players have opted out of the England squad?
Nine players are sidelined due to fitness issues, having originally been selected for the matches against Greece and Ireland during the November international break.
Notable absences include Declan Rice, Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, and Bukayo Saka.
While Saka’s selection might be understandable, as he left Arsenal’s recent match against Chelsea due to an injury concern, the reasons behind the withdrawals of the others are less clear.
Rice came off during the Chelsea match but did not show signs of injury, while Palmer and Foden both played the entire game for their respective clubs over the weekend.
Additional players who have withdrawn include Jack Grealish, Aaron Ramsdale, Levi Colwill, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Jarrad Branthwaite.
Grealish is excusable as he hasn’t played for Manchester City since October 20, and Branthwaite has been dealing with a long-term groin injury. However, Ramsdale and Colwill haven’t missed any matches and appear fit.
The absence of 19-year-old Kobbie Mainoo is understandable, as he has been out of action for nearly a month. Alexander-Arnold was substituted early in Liverpool’s game against Aston Villa, but reports have indicated that he will be available for Liverpool after the international break, potentially making him a target of Kane’s frustration as well.
