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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
World
Anthony France

Slippers and ‘tea with a kick’: England pair reveal secrets in their luggage

Harry Kane and Eric Dier revealed their home comforts in their luggage

(Picture: Getty Images)

Harry Kane and Eric Dier on Monday revealed the home comforts they have taken with them to the World Cup — as the team geared up for their clash with Wales.

Defender Dier said he had packed a supply of maté, a South American tea said to have the endorphin buzz of chocolate. Admitting it was a “contentious” choice, he said: “It’s like a strong green tea. It has a very distinct taste. I feel if I don’t have one in the morning, I’m sleepy. There’s a kick to it.”

Dier said he gets plenty of stick for his brew but Kieran Trippier had brought him a carry pouch to put the herbs and hot water flask in.

In Kane’s kitbag is a pair of Ugg slippers “which are essential for around the hotel” and face cleanser to keep himself looking young for wife Katie. Both players have taken tablet computers: captain Kane prefers YouTube and Game of Thrones spin-off House of Dragons; Dier is glued to the new season of The Crown. Kane also has a diary and journal to remind him of engagements; Dier is into The Lincoln Highway, Amor Towles’s adventure novel set in Fifties America. Kane remarked: “I’ll be honest, I don’t read books.”

Tuesday’s game with Wales kicks off at 7pm UK time. Victory or a draw will see England through to the last 16. Wales need to beat England for the first time in 38 years and by a four-goal margin to have a chance of making the knockout stage.

The Wales players’ wives and girlfriends had a party in Dubai on Sunday, with one crashing onto a coffee table after attempting a cartwheel. They later posed for a photo on the beach.

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