England manager Gareth Southgate has called Harry Kane’s leadership “particularly outstanding” in the absence of the likes of Jordan Henderson and Harry Maguire for the Three Lions at Uefa Euro 2024.
Kane has faced criticism for his performances, with speculation that the 30-year-old, who was substituted during his side’s semi-final victory over the Netherlands, has been carrying an injury.
Defenders Kieran Trippier, Lewis Dunk and Kyle Walker are the only players in the squad aged over 30, and Southgate believes Kane has “grown hugely” as one of a smaller number of players with significant international credentials.
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Harry Kane: Euro 2024 captain ‘sets example’
“We lost a couple of experienced leaders with injuries – Henderson, Maguire, for example,” Southgate told UEFA.com.
“So even more has fallen on his lap, but he has risen to that challenge really well. I have to say, in the last few weeks, he’s been particularly outstanding, recognising more than ever the value of the group.”
Kane said his instinct was to “always try to be the leader”. “I always try to set the example,” he added. “That’s what the team is: when everyone’s fighting in the same direction.
“Everyone is trying to achieve the same goal. There are no egos involved. It’s just [that] we want anyone to make the difference.”
England vs Spain: Kane joint-top scorer
Bayern Munich striker Kane scored England’s opener in their 1-1 group-stage draw against Denmark, headed their extra-time winner to beat Slovakia in the round of 16 and slotted in a penalty to equalise against Oranje.
The former Tottenham talisman is the joint-top scorer at the finals and celebrated exuberantly with his replacement, Ollie Watkins, after the Aston Villa forward struck the 90th-minute winner in the 2-1 win.
“I can’t remember what I was saying to him but it was probably along the lines that he deserves it,” said Kane.
“Credit to Ollie – it’s not easy not starting. It’s not easy waiting for your chance, so to come on and take that chance like he did, with that finish, was a credit to him and a massive achievement for the team.”
England face a Spain side who have won all six of their games at the tournament in the final at Berlin’s Olympiastadion on Sunday (20:00 BST).
