GARETH SOUTHGATE has hinted that Harry Kane will start against Wales despite fears the England captain needs to rest his sore foot.
The Tottenham striker suffered an ankle injury scare in Monday’s 6-2 win over Iran.
Southgate quickly moved to ease worries over his talisman’s fitness last week and revealed that it was a slight issue with his foot rather than ankle that was the problem.
Kane then played in Friday’s drab USA stalemate, where he drew his second blank of the tournament, and was spotted walking gingerly in trainers with his ankle covered in straps afterwards.
With England’s place virtually assured in the last-16, there have been calls for Southgate to rest the forward on Tuesday in the Battle of Britain against Wales.
But when asked whether the 29-year-old needed a rest, the Three Lions boss said: “We’re obviously going to pick the team we believe we can win. That’s our priority always.”
Southgate once again reiterated that it is the star’s foot rather than ankle that has been the issue.
And he added: “He’s fine in terms of the knock. It’s his foot, not ankle.
“He’s trained well. Only Ben White missing through illness.
“We’ve got pretty much everyone available for selection. It’s a great position to be in.
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“It makes selection difficult but we want a full-fit squad.”
England sit top of Group B on four points, one ahead of second-placed Iran.
The USA, who take on Iran on Tuesday, are third on two points after consecutive draws.
And Wales, who England face in their final Group B match, are bottom on one point.
That means the Three Lions will qualify for the knockouts if they avoid a 4-0 defeat to the Welsh.
