Overview
- Harry Kane will miss the Oct. 9 Wembley friendly against Wales after an ankle knock sustained for Bayern Munich left him unable to kick a ball without pain.
- Thomas Tuchel said he is convinced Kane will be available for the Oct. 14 World Cup qualifier in Riga, with the striker following an individual indoor programme at St George’s Park.
- With Kane sidelined, Tuchel named Jordan Henderson, John Stones and Declan Rice as captaincy options, and Ollie Watkins is widely expected to deputise up front.
- England can clinch a 2026 World Cup berth with a win in Latvia if Serbia and Albania draw, following a strong September that included a 5-0 win in Serbia.
- Tuchel defended leaving out Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden and Jack Grealish to reward last month’s performers, while injuries and withdrawals such as Reece James have further shaped selection.