New Delhi: England’s interim manager Lee Carsley has revealed that John Stones will lead England in the UEFA Nations League match against Greece, with Harry Kane starting on the bench. Kane sustained a right leg injury during Bayern Munich’s weekend match and has been training separately since returning to the England camp. Carsley confirmed that Kane won’t be risked for Thursday’s game, as there is another game against Finland on Sunday.
Lee Carsely said, “Harry’s nursing an injury, a small knock; it’s something that we won’t take a chance with. We’re not ruling him out just yet, but he won’t start the game, hopefully he’ll be in contention then for Sunday. Time will tell, it’s not something I think we should be rushing.”
With his captain on the bench, Carsley has chosen 30-year-old Manchester City defender Stones to wear the armband. He has earned 81 caps for the Three Lions since his debut in 2014 and will captain England from the start of a match for the first time.
Lee Carsley has confirmed that John Stones will captain the #ThreeLions for the very first time tomorrow ❤️🏴 pic.twitter.com/qWxmzAHI9w
— England (@England) October 9, 2024
Only Harry Kane (81) and Kyle Walker (70) have made more appearances for England during Gareth Southgate’s tenure than Stones, who had 68 caps tied with goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Reflecting on being given the armband, Stones admitted he was so delighted, that he was lost for words when Carsley shared the news.
The Man City defender said, “Definitely everything that I could have dreamed of as a kid, more for my family I think, to be able to see me walk out as England captain is a special moment.”
“An honour that I’ll cherish forever.” ✨
John Stones on what it will mean to captain the #ThreeLions at @wembleystadium on Thursday night. pic.twitter.com/QNZxsNZnzi
— England (@England) October 9, 2024
He added that he couldn’t thank Carsley enough for the opportunity, calling it an “incredible” moment in his career. In recent years the 30-year-old has become a mainstay in the England side helping his nation to two major tournament final appearances in consecutive European Championships.
Carsley commends Stones’ leadership, Palmer’s form
Lee Carsley has spoken highly of both his players John Stones and Cole Palmer. While speaking about Stones Carsley emphasized that his professionalism and leadership on and off the pitch make him deserving of this role.”It’s a brilliant achievement,” Carsley said. He added that Stones is the most deserving player for the role due to his vast experience with the national team and his ability to guide younger players.
In addition to praising Stones, Carsley also spoke highly of Cole Palmer, another City player stating that the young winger is currently in “excellent form” and has shown consistent progress throughout the week. The 22-year-old recently won England Men’s Player of the Year award. Having worked closely with Palmer over the years the interim manager voiced his belief in the player’s potential to deliver strong performances in the upcoming games.
The upcoming matches in the UEFA Nations League will both test experienced players like Stones and emerging talents like Palmer as they aim to secure more wins for England.
John Stones will captain England for the first time in the Nations League match against Greece, with Lee Carsley praising his dedication and professionalism. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
