Harry Kane expresses dissatisfaction as eight players withdraw from England’s UEFA Nations League team.

Harry Kane has voiced his frustration following the withdrawal of eight players from the England squad ahead of their upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures. The Tottenham Hotspur striker made it clear that “England comes before anything,” as he expressed disappointment over the situation.

Interim manager Lee Carsley is set to lead the Three Lions in matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland, but he has been forced to make significant changes to his squad due to the mass withdrawals. Notable absentees include Trent Alexander-Arnold, Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Levi Colwill, Cole Palmer, and Aaron Ramsdale, all of whom pulled out on Monday.

Kane, speaking to ITV, reflected on the timing of these withdrawals, suggesting that players may have “taken advantage” of what he described as a “tough period of the season.” He stated, “It’s a shame this week, obviously. I think it’s a tough period of the season and, yeah, maybe that’s been taken advantage of a little bit.”

The England captain did not hold back in his criticism, adding, “I don’t really like it if I’m totally honest. I think, like I just said there, England comes before anything, any club situation.”

In a nod to the outgoing manager Gareth Southgate, Kane praised his leadership, stating that Southgate had “brought back” the “joy” of representing England. He emphasized that the squad was eager to play under Southgate’s guidance, saying, “I think the joy to play for England was the key factor Southgate brought. I think he brought that back.”

Kane noted the enthusiasm within the squad during previous camps, remarking, “Every camp people were excited to come, every camp people wanted to play for England, and, yeah, that’s the most important thing. I think England comes before anything.”

Looking ahead, Thomas Tuchel is set to officially take charge of the England team from January 1. The 2026 World Cup presents the first opportunity for the nation to secure its first piece of silverware since 1966. The pressure will be on Tuchel to instill a sense of pride and commitment in the players, ensuring that the ethos of putting England first remains at the forefront.