Harry Kane has expressed disappointment over the numerous withdrawals from the England squad this week, suggesting that some players may have lost sight of the significance of representing their country. According to Kane, playing for England should be a priority, and he feels disheartened by the lack of commitment shown by certain teammates.
A total of nine players have pulled out of England’s squad ahead of their match against Greece on Thursday and their upcoming game against the Republic of Ireland on Monday night. Interim manager Lee Carsley, in charge of his last camp before newly appointed head coach Thomas Tuchel steps in, faces the challenge of preparing the team without several key players. Notable absences include Aaron Ramsdale, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Levi Colwill, Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Cole Palmer, Jack Grealish, and Phil Foden, with Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite becoming the latest to withdraw on Wednesday evening.
Kane’s frustration is clear as he prepares to lead England at the Olympic Stadium in Athens, fully aware that the absence of these crucial players could affect their chances of securing an automatic promotion spot in the Nations League. When asked whether he thought the commitment to England had weakened this week, Kane candidly remarked, “It’s disappointing to see. Obviously, it’s a challenging time in the season, and maybe some have taken advantage of that.”
He added, “If I’m being completely honest, I don’t like it. For me, England comes before everything, even club commitments.”
