England's first-choice Harry Kane alternative? Gareth Southgate makes key decision on who will start up front against Brazil in captain's absence

According toThe Telegraph, Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins is set to begin as the lone striker for the Three Lions in their friendly against the Selecao on Saturday evening. The 28-year-old has 16 goals and 10 assists for Unai Emery's men throughout 2023-24 and is set to be given the nod by the England boss at Wembley. The question of who will cover for Kane is one of many facing Southgate as Euro 2024 approaches.

Kane is unavailable for the game after being forced off through injury during Bayern Munich's 5-2 win against Darmstadt last weekend. The England goal machine scored just before half-time but collided with the post towards the end of the fixture and is now a doubt for both England games in this international break.

"Tomorrow no  Harry Kane, no Jordan Henderson, no Cole Palmer," Southgate told a press conference on Friday. "I would say Cole and Hendo have a better chance of Belgium than Harry. He would be extremely doubtful for that."

Watkins is now set to start up front against Brazil. The Villa forward will also likely be joined by Newcastle United's Anthony Gordon - who received his maiden call-up to the senior squad - in place of the injured Bukayo Saka on the wing. Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher is in line to join Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham in midfield.