The question, that will be on many fans lips, is: does Harry Kane deserve an England call-up? After scoring 18 goals this campaign so far, Kane has proven his capability of scoring goals. Adored by Spurs fans, regarded by other fans, is it time England fans began to love this fantastic player?
Kane has taken the Barclays Premier League by storm, for he truly is a “Hurrikane” as dubbed by his fans. This is proven by his recent form, six league goals in as many games. These aren’t tap-ins. These goals are the mark of a promising, inspiring striker. Yet, he isn’t akin to those languid, high-lying strikers who wait to be served by their midfield. Kane chisels out his chances with his own bare hands. Hard work has got him to where he is. Relentless in his pressing, he terrorises the defenders not by blistering pace, but an uncanny persistence. Fit, on form and scoring goals. What else does Hodgson need in a striker?
Of course, the step up from a club to the international level is a sticking point. Just because a player is excelling domestically, it does not mean he’ll replicate this for his country. However, what Kane has proven is that he is able to score goals, something England lacks. He’s demonstrated his goal scoring prowess in the England youth teams. In over 32 appearances from under-17 right through to under-21, he has scored 22 goals, including 13 goals in 12 appearances for the under 21’s. This goal to game record is rather impressive. The England senior team may be a different ballpark, but this is where Hodgson must use his knowledge and experience to ease him into the international set-up. Bringing him in too early could risk shattering his confidence. But, his form surely must be rewarded?
From zero to hero, from academy product to arguably one of Spurs’ best strikers at the club at the moment, Kane has remarkably progressed recently. At the age of just 21, he still has many years left to fill his boots with goals aplenty. Likewise, he has plenty of years left to play for England, perhaps later in his career. Kane isn’t going to be the first choice for England just yet, but even a few substitute appearances for him will boost his confidence and allow him to further improve himself. Ricky Lambert is an example of a player that had to wait a long time for his first England cap, however the backgrounds of the two players are quite different. Lambert fought through the non-league divisions whilst Kane enjoyed the high-flying loan life of a Barclays Premier League club. But, the fact that Kane is already in the Spurs first team indicates he has the potential to really be an integral player for England,whereas, Lambert is perhaps already dwindling towards his twilight years as a footballer. The point here is that Kane has many years left and even if Hodgson doesn’t call him up for another two years, there will still be plenty of years left to play for England.
To summarise, Harry Kane is truly an astounding player. A man so young, yet with the stature of a seasoned professional. An England call-up would do the world of good. Experiencing international football would be a catalyst in shaping Harry Kane into one of the next footballing greats.
Thank you for reading. Please take a moment to follow me on Twitter –@Wizward. Support LWOS by following us on Twitter – @LastWordOnSport and @LWOSworld – and “liking” our Facebook page.
For the latest in sports injury news, check out our friends at Sports Injury Alert.
Have you tuned into Last Word On Sports Radio? LWOS is pleased to bring you 24/7 sports radio to your PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone. What are you waiting for?
Feel free to discuss this and other footy related articles with thousands of fans at r/football.
Main photo:
