Lee Carsley addresses potential rift between club and country after Harry Kane snipe as interim England boss defends nine dropouts from Nations League squad

Ahead of the Nations League double-header a host of England’s key players pulled out from the squad due to injuries and fatigue. The list of absentees includes notable names such as Manchester City's Jack Grealish and Phil Foden, Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Everton's rising star Jarrad Branthwaite. Chelsea's Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill, along with Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice, also exited the squad, accompanied by Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

Kane, England’s captain, did not hold back when asked about the withdrawals. Known for his steadfast commitment to the national team, the Bayern Munich striker stressed that playing for the England team “comes before anything", making it clear that his colleagues should value answering the Three Lions' call above all else.

Responding to Kane’s critique, interim manager Carsley offered a more measured perspective, emphasising the physical demands on players during the November window.

“It’s his opinion,” Carsley remarked about Kane’s comments. “I can only deal with what is in front of us. November is a challenging window. In the past, we had eight to nine call offs. It is definitely that period of the season where fatigue and small injuries have played a part in it. I think it is a brilliant opportunity for the other players who were outside of the squad and now it's their chance."

Despite the setbacks, England head to Greece with confidence, aiming for a strong performance to secure their place at the top of the group. Following that game, they will take on Ireland at Wembley on November 17.