England aims to secure a place in the 2026 World Cup during this international window. Before the important qualifier, they will face Wales in a friendly match, but the key news is the absence of captain Harry Kane.
England’s head coach Thomas Tuchel announced that Kane will not play against Wales due to an ankle injury he sustained while playing for Bayern Munich in their 3–0 win over Eintracht Frankfurt. However, he will be on the bench for the match.
“Harry will miss the game. He received a kick in his last match, and it is too risky for him to receive another. We are hopeful he will be ready for the Latvia game after some time to recover,” Tuchel told reporters at a press conference.
With Kane unavailable, Tuchel stated who might take over as captain: “It will be one of Jordan Henderson, John Stones, or Declan Rice,” he added.
Harry Kane receiving medical treatment against Eintracht Frankfurt. (Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
What’s next for England?
Europe is still the only region without any team qualified for the 2026 World Cup, as UEFA’s qualifying process is ongoing. England has not yet qualified but needs just one win to secure their spot.
Tuchel’s choice to rest Harry Kane against Wales is aimed at ensuring he is fit for the upcoming qualifier against Latvia, set for Tuesday, October 14.
The Three Lions have performed well in Group K, winning all five matches so far. A win against Latvia would guarantee their place in the 2026 World Cup. England will finish their qualifying campaign in November, facing Serbia at home on November 13 and Albania away on November 16.