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Three key players – Harry Kane, Ezri Konsa, and Morgan Gibbs-White – are now injury concerns, forcing Carsley to potentially alter his squad just days before the crucial double-header against Greece and Finland.
The primary worry is captain Harry Kane, who was forced off during Bayern Munich’s dramatic 3-3 draw with Eintracht Frankfurt. Kane, 31, suffered a knock to his right thigh and required treatment before being substituted in the 72nd minute. His fitness to lead England at Wembley on Thursday is now in doubt. Bayern manager Vincent Kompany remained cautious, stating, “It’s too early to say what’s wrong with him. We hope it’s not that bad.”
Kane’s injury isn’t the only setback for Carsley. Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa limped off during Villa’s goalless draw against Manchester United, appearing to suffer a hamstring injury early in the match. Villa boss Unai Emery expressed hope for a quick recovery, saying, “Hopefully, it’s not a lot. He can rest in the international break and recover.”
Adding to the concern, Nottingham Forest midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White sustained what appeared to be an ankle or lower leg injury in his side’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea. Gibbs-White, who made his England debut in September under Carsley, has been a key player for Forest, and his absence would be a significant loss. Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo voiced his worries post-match, saying, “We are concerned. He will have a scan, and we hope it’s nothing serious.”
With these injuries, Carsley’s defensive options are particularly limited. Konsa’s absence would leave him with just three fit centre-backs. Levi Colwill, who was substituted late in Chelsea’s draw, is expected to join the England camp without issue. However, Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, a potential replacement for Konsa, missed his match against Newcastle due to injury and has played just once this season. This leaves Carsley with few alternatives at a critical time, especially as Harry Maguire, another centre-back option, also picked up a knock in United’s match against Villa.
Despite these setbacks, Carsley will be eager to maintain momentum following England’s 2-0 victory over Finland last month, where Kane scored both goals. Kane’s recent form has been impressive, with back-to-back hat-tricks for Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga. His potential absence could significantly impact England’s attacking options, while the injuries to Konsa and Gibbs-White further complicate Carsley’s plans as he aims to guide England through these challenging fixtures.
As the squad reports to St. George’s Park, Carsley will await further updates on his injured stars, knowing that the upcoming matches are crucial for England’s Nations League campaign. The Three Lions will face Greece at Wembley before traveling to Finland for what will be Carsley’s fourth game in charge. While the manager hopes for positive news regarding the injuries, he faces an anxious wait as he prepares for what could be a defining week in his tenure.
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