Do England have a Harry Kane replacement - or is he yet to emerge?
With Harry Kane reaching his mid-thirties, England are facing the challenge of finding his long-term successor. Is the answer already in the squad, or does the future star lie elsewhere?
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Author: YantsImages
Harry Kane remains a cornerstone of the England team, but as he turns 33, the conversation about his eventual successor is intensifying. Thomas Tuchel has been candid about the difficulty of replacing the Bayern Munich striker, noting that the team must look for creative solutions rather than seeking a direct clone.
A primary candidate currently being explored is Jude Bellingham. Tuchel has praised the Real Madrid star's natural goalscoring instincts, even experimenting with him in a more advanced role. Since the 2026 World Cup, Bellingham's output for England has surged, cementing his status as one of the team's most influential figures.
However, opinions are divided. Former goalkeeper Paul Robinson argues that Bellingham is not an out-and-out number nine, preferring a role that links play rather than leading the line alone. Meanwhile, natural striker options are thin. Dominic Calvert-Lewin has struggled for consistency, and experienced alternatives like Ivan Toney and Ollie Watkins are currently outside the squad.
If a traditional striker cannot be found, England may transition to a more fluid system, similar to the approach used by European champions Spain. This could open doors for players like Anthony Gordon or emerging young talents such as 17-year-old Aston Villa striker Brian Madjo and Middlesbrough's Will Lankshear.