England’s interim manager, Lee Carsley, has confirmed that captain Harry Kane will not be fit to start in their crucial UEFA Nations League match against Greece at Wembley Stadium. Kane, England’s record goalscorer, picked up a minor injury during Bayern Munich’s recent clash with Eintracht Frankfurt, leaving his availability for this vital fixture in doubt. Carsley, who is expected to lead the team for the six Nations League group games, has opted not to risk the striker, despite the high stakes.
Kane’s absence will be a blow for England, who, like Greece, have earned six points from their first two Group B2 matches. Both teams secured victories last month against the Republic of Ireland and Finland, setting up this clash as a potential group decider. The two sides now look to continue their perfect starts, with Wembley providing the backdrop for what promises to be a fiercely competitive encounter.
Speaking ahead of the match, Carsley explained his decision to rest the prolific striker: “Harry is nursing an injury – a small knock, something we won’t take a chance with,” said the interim boss. While the injury is not considered serious, Carsley made it clear that the team would prioritize Kane’s long-term fitness, especially given his importance for both club and country.
England will also monitor the fitness of Manchester City’s Jack Grealish, who picked up a knock during training earlier this week. Like Kane, Grealish’s availability is in doubt, with Carsley emphasizing that the team would not “gamble” on any player’s fitness. “We will assess Jack later,” he said, leaving Grealish’s status uncertain as match day approaches.
In Kane’s absence, Manchester City defender John Stones has been handed the captain’s armband, an honor the 30-year-old described as a “dream come true.” Stones, who has been a key player for both City and England in recent years, expressed his pride at the opportunity to lead the national team at Wembley. “It’s definitely everything that I could have dreamed of as a kid,” said Stones. “For my family to see me walk out as England captain is a special moment.”
Stones also praised Carsley for the trust shown in him, adding: “[It’s] one that I can’t thank Lee enough for. It was a great conversation we had last night and one that I was speechless in.”
While Kane and Grealish’s injuries have dominated the headlines, England’s squad has also been hit by other fitness concerns. Morgan Gibbs-White, Ezri Konsa, and Kobbie Mainoo were ruled out earlier this week, leading to call-ups for Curtis Jones and Tino Livramento. The changes may have disrupted Carsley’s plans, but the interim boss remains confident in his squad’s depth and ability to adapt.
Carsley also addressed the inclusion of Chelsea forward Cole Palmer, who was recently named England’s Player of the Season despite not having started a competitive game for the national team. The 21-year-old has impressed for both club and country, with Carsley highlighting Palmer’s ability to link up with fellow young stars like Noni Madueke. “Whenever I pick a team, it’s important that we get the players doing things that they do at their clubs,” said Carsley. “Cole and Noni have a good relationship.”
Stones also spoke highly of Palmer, reflecting on their time together at Manchester City. “I was a huge fan of Cole as soon as he came into our first-team set-up,” said Stones. “How he has conducted himself and stepped up in big moments is credit to Cole. He’s in a good moment, and I hope that continues as long as possible.”
Greece coach Ivan Jovanovic, who took over from Gus Poyet in the summer, acknowledged the challenge his side faces but believes the match will provide a valuable test for his players. “England being one of the best teams in the world, it’s a good measuring stick to see how the team measures up,” said Jovanovic.
Jovanovic also noted a shift in England’s playing style since Carsley replaced Gareth Southgate after Euro 2024. “Southgate did a lot for English football,” he said. “However, the style has changed slightly under Lee Carsley. He has instilled a bit more of a possession-based style, and the players have a bit more creative freedom.”
Despite the iconic setting of Wembley, Jovanovic stressed that his team was not in London for a sightseeing tour. “Wembley is a symbol of world football. But the team is not here for tourism, they have a match to play,” he stated.
With both teams level on points, this Nations League fixture has added significance, as it could determine the trajectory of the group. For England, the absence of Kane and the potential loss of Grealish are significant blows, but under the leadership of John Stones, the Three Lions will be determined to maintain their winning momentum and secure a key victory at Wembley.
