Tuchel expresses Kane’s importance, O’Reilly ruled out

England manager Thomas Tuchel says the national team will not find another Harry Kane as the captain continues to set records for the Three Lions. 

Kane scored his 87th international goal in Tuesday’s 2-0 win over the Czech Republic and is now just two appearances away from equalling Peter Shilton’s record of 125 England caps.

Tuchel praised Kane’s finishing, work ethic and influence, describing the Bayern Munich striker as a complete forward. 

However, he acknowledged that Kane, who is 33, cannot continue indefinitely and said England will eventually have to find a different solution rather than try to produce a direct replacement.

Jude Bellingham has already been tested in a more advanced role, with the Real Madrid midfielder playing as a number nine after Kane was substituted against the Czech Republic. 

Tuchel said he likes Bellingham in the position because of his goalscoring instincts and ability to contribute across the pitch.

Meanwhile, England will be without Nico O’Reilly for their final two Nations League matches of the international break after the Manchester City defender withdrew from the squad with an injury. 

O’Reilly played the full 3-2 defeat by Spain but missed Tuesday’s victory over the Czech Republic and has returned to City for further assessment.

O’Reilly will miss Saturday’s trip to Croatia and Tuesday’s return meeting with the Czech Republic, and England has decided not to call up a replacement. 

Lewis Hall filled in at left-back against the Czechs and linked up effectively with former Newcastle teammate Anthony Gordon on the left side.

With Kane continuing to lead the attack and O’Reilly unavailable, Tuchel will have to manage his squad carefully across the final two fixtures. 

The England boss has said the team is exploring different attacking options, while Hall is set to cover at left-back for the remaining matches.