Gareth Southgate has confirmed that Harry Kane could miss two friendly matches

England manager Southgate stated that Harry Kane's absence has provided a "fantastic opportunity" for Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney to shine in the team's attack. Due to an ankle injury, Three Lions captain Kane will miss Saturday's friendly against Brazil, with coach Southgate confirming that both Kieran Palmer and Jordan Henderson will also be absent.

He added that the Bayern Munich star's participation in Tuesday's match against Belgium is "highly doubtful," but the 30-year-old's absence opens the door for another attacking player - either Villa's Watkins or Brentford's Toney. He told reporters, "I would say that the opportunities against the Belgian team are probably better for Cole Palmer and Jordan Henderson than Harry Kane - he's very doubtful for that. This is a fantastic opportunity for other players."

When asked if Toney and Watkins were competing for one position in the team, Southgate replied, "That's a decision we have to make. The number 9 is a specialist position, but they have different attributes. It will depend to some extent on injuries and other positions in the team have performed well, and there may also be players who can play multiple roles. I think they both realize that the opportunity is huge. But they are both in good shape, and they have time with us.

Of course, Ollie [Watkins] has been with us recently and has performed well in the games he has been involved in. He has had a wonderful season for his club. Ivan [Toney] has been back at Brentford and we expect him to make an impact, so they are two very, very good players."