Harry Kane matches appearance record as England face Czech Republic in Nations League

England take on the Czech Republic at Wembley in the Nations League, with captain Harry Kane matching Peter Shilton's record tally of 125 international caps. Pre-match buildup at Wembley features a light show and pitchside flame-throwers. Manager Thomas Tuchel brings Trent Alexander-Arnold back into the starting eleven, while Jarell Quansah starts at centre-back. Tuchel praised his side's recent 7-0 thrashing of Croatia in Rijeka, where 23-year-old Jude Bellingham scored, provided three assists, and wore the captain's armband. Former midfielder Roy Keane said Bellingham can become one of the greatest players of all time following that performance. In team news, Anthony Gordon is left on the bench alongside Bukayo Saka, and Morgan Rogers hopes to prove a point. Tuchel noted that the team has improved when Kane drops deep into the ten position. In group standings, England sit second in their group with seven points from four games behind leaders Spain.

Context

National teams compete in the UEFA Nations League through group stage fixtures to secure points and standings placement. Squad selections and player caps are closely tracked milestones in international football history.