Ivan Toney is set to make only his second England appearance when they face Belgium in Tuesday’s friendly while midfielder Declan Rice will mark his 50th cap by wearing the captain’s armband, manager Gareth Southgate said on Monday.
With skipper Harry Kane sidelined with an ankle injury, Toney will have the opportunity to lead the line and try to impress ahead of the Euros after Ollie Watkins struggled to make an impact up front in last week’s 1-0 loss to Brazil. “We’re probably finding out about more players but that’s really helpful. To see all those players against high level opposition will help us make better decisions moving forward.”
“It’s his 50th cap. He has great leadership experience already at a tender age and I think it’s a brilliant opportunity for some of our younger players to show leadership and experience it,” Southgate said.