Interim boss Lee Carsley says his focus remains on returning England to the top tier of the Nations League as he prepares for a final game in charge on Sunday before the arrival of new manager Thomas Tuchel.
England host the Republic of Ireland at Wembley and will look to secure top spot in Group B2 after an impressive 3-0 win away to Greece on Thursday.
Carsley – temporarily promoted from the U21s following the departure of Gareth Southgate – has warned against any complacency as England look to get the job done before attention turns to a World Cup qualifying campaign under German coach Tuchel.
“Looking ahead, my priority is to make sure we get the job done tomorrow,” Carsley said.
“Full respect for Ireland and the strengths they have, so we have to make sure we approach the game in the right way.”
Carsley confirmed England had withdrawn from the November meeting for the tenth time after Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa left with a hip problem in Athens.
“He has been assessed by the medical team. The scan results are back and he will now return to Villa this afternoon,” Carsley said.
“Like I said, we won't take any risks with any player, so apart from Ezri we are in good shape.”
England captain Kane is yet to speak to Tuchel
Harry Kane said he has not yet met new boss Thomas Tuchel but added that the pair, who played together at Bayern Munich last season, had exchanged messages.
“I texted him when he was announced,” said the England captain.
“He replied, but I haven't spoken to him. Before March camp next year, I'm sure we'll catch up, but I haven't spoken (to him).”
Kane also said his recent comments about the series of withdrawals for this month's international camp were aimed at clubs and not his teammates.
“All the players try to do their best when they come to England. I know it is a very tough phase of the season,” said the Bayern Munich forward.
“Whoever is in the squad is the most important thing. What we have here is the only thing we can work with.”
“In the future there will always be injuries, it's just whoever is in the squad who is ready to make a difference.”
Kane “didn't expect” comments to get so much attention
On the traction his comments received, Kane added: “I didn't expect it to get as much attention as it did. November camp has always been tough – you're in the thick of a lot of games.
“So I believe it is very important after a major championship, where the camps in September, October and November are very important in a year leading up to the World Cup.
“These are also the camps where you build that culture and that togetherness that takes you to a World Cup. It was just a reminder that it is very special to play for England.”
Carsley confirmed after the win against Greece that Kane would start against the Republic after surprisingly being named as one of the substitutes in Athens.
“It's not the first time I've come on as a substitute for England. Since Lee took charge I've only played one match per side,” said Kane.
“I always want to start every game, I have never shied away from that, we are in a difficult phase of the season.
“But when I am called upon, I will always give everything for the team, whether it is from the bench or as a starter, I will always give my best.”
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