The Three Lions of England have been hit with more injury problems ahead of Tuesday’s international friendly against Belgium at Wembley Stadium. The game is their second game in over four days after Saturday’s 1-0 loss to Brazil on the same ground.

Both countries are preparing for Euro 2024, which will happen in the summer in Germany, but England has had to play their last game on Tuesday’s own without striker Harry Kane and two more players who will sit out of Belgium’s visit to London.

While Harry Kane’s injury was from a Bayern Munich Bundesliga game before the break, where he collided with the post, Kyle Walker and Harry Maguire’s absences are due to injuries from the last game.

Manchester City’s Kyle Walker started Saturday’s game against Brazil as the side’s skipper, but he barely lasted half an hour in the fixture before being substituted due to a suspected hamstring problem. Manchester United defender Harry Maguire took the captain’s band from him, but he would not be available for Tuesday due to another injury.

While Harry Maguire played until the 67th minute, Crystal Palace’s goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, who didn’t play on Saturday, has all returned to their respective clubs, while two players have been promoted to the senior side to replace them.

Burnley keeper James Trafford replaces the injured Crystal Palace goalkeeper, and Manchester City defender Rico Lewis has also been promoted to the senior squad from the England Under-21s, 

Although England manager Gareth Southgate couldn’t provide an update on the other players, he was able to confirm the absence of Harry Kane and his return to Germany.

“Harry Kane will return to Germany for treatment of an ankle injury. He won’t be ready to play against Belgium on Tuesday.” Southgate said.

England lost on Saturday courtesy of Endrick’s goal in the last ten minutes of the game as he became the youngest player to score at a senior national or club match at Wembley.

Daniel Ademiju Idowu