World Cup: England intend to wear ‘OneLove’ armband at World Cup as FIFA talks continue

Harry Kane is among the captains of nine European nations planning to wear the rainbow armbands in a country where same-sex relationships are criminalised.

The FA is prepared to be fined over the issue and reiterated its decision to where the ‘OneLove’ armband against discrimination despite FIFA announcing plans for its own band on the eve of the tournament.

It has been reported that wearing the armband could lead to an immediate booking before a ball is kicked, which could potentially cause havoc as two yellow cards lead to a one-match ban.

The FA is seeking clarification with football’s world governing body on the matter over a stance Kane and manager Gareth Southgate are fully behind.

England skipper Kane said: “I think we’ve made it clear as a team and a staff and organisation that we want to wear the armband.

“I know the FA are talking to FIFA at the moment, and I’m sure by game-time tomorrow they will have their decision. But, yeah, I think we’ve made it clear that we want to wear it.”

Asked for his opinion given the apparent threat of a yellow card, boss Southgate added: “There’s nothing I can add to what Harry has said.

“I know there are some conversations going on. I think a number of European countries have spoken.

“We’ve made our position clear, so hopefully everything will be resolved before the game.”

Southgate added that England will take a knee before kick off.

“We have discussed taking the knee,” the manager said. “We feel we should.

“It’s what we stand for as a team and have done for a long period of time.

“We understand in the Premier League that the clubs have decided to only do that for certain games, big occasions.

“We feel this is the biggest and we think it’s a strong statement that will go around the world for young people, in particular, to see that inclusivity is very important.”

He also confirmed yesterday that he has virtually a fully-fit squad to pick from.

“In terms of player availability everybody’s available bar James Maddison for tomorrow,” he said.

“It’s a little bit early for Kyle Walker but he is training with the team, so that’s ahead of where we thought he might be at this stage. Very positive.

“We’re looking forward to this challenge and I’ve really liked the way the players have approached training this week.”