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World Cup 2022: Kane to miss USA clash?

England made the dream start to their World Cup campaign on Monday as they overcame a potential banana skin by battering Iran 6-2. Gareth Southgate was vindicated for both controversial selections in his starting XI with Harry Maguire dominating in the air and Bukayo Saka, who was preferred to Phil Foden, bagging a brace. There is, however, now some bad news for the Three Lions with captain Harry Kane a doubt for Friday’s clash with the USA.

What’s up with Kane?

Kane impressed for England in their opening match victory over Iran. Sure, the Tottenham man didn’t add to the 51 goals he has already scored for the country but his all round game was phenomenal and he ended the match with two assists.

There was one heart in mouth moment for England fans during the match where Kane was concerned though. Shortly after the interval Kane was caught late by Iran’s Morteza Pouraliganji; immediately the nation in unison feared he’d “done” his ankle – that’s a problem he’s experienced a few times in the past. Those fears grew when, at the time, Kane received treatment on the field of play. Seemingly though, those concerns were short lived. Kane continued to play on and showed no signs of restricted movement whist his impact on the game remained significant.

That noted, Southgate opted to remove Kane in the 75th minute. Kane left the pitch on his own and didn’t head for the dressing room. It looked to be a 100% precautionary move from the England boss.

Later on, Kane was seen with strapping and a slight discomfort in his step but Southgate advised that he appeared “fine”. With that update and no other negative news coming out the evening of the game, the incident was completely forgotten.

Kane needs a scan

The mood around the England team was a buzzing one on Tuesday morning. England has won convincingly with a good performance to boot. Argentina had been shocked by Saudi Arabia, which is noteworthy because the two factors combined have propelled England into second favourite with the bookies, but then came the news – Harry Kane faces scan.

Harry Kane 2
Kane will hoping for good news from his scan

After going through the usual cool down and recovery processes – and after attempting to ‘sleep it off Kane’s ankle remained a concern for the player. The England medical team aren’t sure about it either and have referred him for a scan; that will take place later today. There are currently no updates available to even suggest what the extent of the damage might be, however, the fact a scan is even needed suggests Friday – at the very least – might come too soon for the front man.

Arguably, England can survive that encounter without him although Callum Wilson, who replaced Kane during the Iran game, also sat out of full training. The bigger concern though is what happens if Kane is out for an extended period of time. There is simply nobody like Kane in this squad; it will be a huge challenge for Southgate and his team.

For now, it’s simply a case of fingers crossed.


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