England captain Harry Kane voiced frustration over teammates withdrawing ahead of their crucial Nations League game against Greece, accusing players of “taking advantage” of the absence of a permanent coach. Eight England players, including Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Cole Palmer, Bukayo Saka, and Declan Rice, pulled out from interim coach Lee Carsley’s squad before the double-header against Greece and the Republic of Ireland.
Kane described the withdrawals as “a shame,” suggesting that the January arrival of incoming manager Thomas Tuchel might have been used as an excuse for players to prioritize club commitments over country. He expressed disappointment, saying, “England comes before any club situation.”
Kane also praised former manager Gareth Southgate for restoring pride in playing for the national team, creating a culture where representing England was seen as an honor. He expressed concern that this enthusiasm has “started to drift,” emphasizing the need for England players to prioritize international duty.
Currently second in Group B2 and three points behind leaders Greece, England needs a win at the Olympic Stadium in Athens to keep their hopes for promotion to League A alive.
