England have confirmed that Harry Kane is not playing against Japan as a precaution after picking up a minor issue in training. They have confirmed that the Bayern Munich striker will remain with the squad for further assessment rather than returning to his club before the friendly at Wembley Stadium.
Marc Guehi will lead out the Three Lions for the first time in Kane’s absence, with Phil Foden said to be playing up front in place of England’s all-time record goalscorer. Anthony Gordon, Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers also start in attacking areas against Japan, with Elliot Anderson and Kobbie Mainoo in midfield.
After sharing the team news across their social media accounts, England explained their captain’s absence. They said: “Harry Kane is rested tonight as a precaution, having picked up a minor issue in training, but remains with the squad receiving further assessment.
Jordan Henderson is also not in the squad despite starting on Friday night against Uruguay. England have now said the midfielder “returned to Brentford ahead of this evening’s fixture.”
