Harry Kane pictured with a strapping on his right ankle and a slight limp after England’s 6-2 win over Iran at the 2022 World Cup.
In the 48th minute of England’s Group B opener, Iran defender Morteza Pouraliganji rammed Kane from behind. The England striker apparently suffered an ankle injury from the foul, requiring treatment early in the second half.
Luckily, Kane managed to continue for around 30 more minutes before being replaced by Callum Wilson up front. However, in the photos captured by Athleticism journalist David Ornstein, Harry Kane was seen limping into the media area.
Harry Kane crossing the mixed zone with his right ankle slightly bound and slightly lame after a challenge from Pouraliganji in the 48th minute. Kane was substituted at 75mins so 1 to watch but appears to have escaped serious injury @TheAthleticFC #FIFAWorldCup #Qatar2022 #ENG https://t.co/rRbQ9JZ45N pic.twitter.com/twVO2lwLoyNovember 21, 2022
He also had a strapping on his right ankle – the same ankle he held onto after the Pouraliganji challenge. He, however, did not mention the injury during his speech to his social media followers.
The 2018 World Cup winner failed to get on the scoresheet against Iran which is sure to frustrate him, especially as England have scored six goals. The 29-year-old, however, managed two assists in the game and played well during his time on the pitch.
Bukayo Saka scored twice on his World Cup debut, after 19-year-old Jude Bellingham netted the first England senior goal of his fledgling career. Raheem Sterling also scored, while Marcus Rashford and Jack Grealish came off the bench to add to the score.
Iranian Mehdi Taremi managed to grab his two goals, including a penalty.
It remains to be seen whether Kane can stand out in the next game, against the United States on Friday.
Ornstein suggests that he “appears to have escaped serious injury”.
Kane will only have four days to rest and recover his ankle in time for the second group game of the tournament. If he fails to be fully fit in time, England’s final group stage game will be against Wales next Tuesday in what could be a truly decisive fixture.
