Why Harry Kane is becoming Lionel Messi-esque for England
Former England striker Stan Collymore explains why Harry Kane’s consistency and dedication to the national team have made him as vital to England as Lionel Messi is to Argentina.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Author: Bryan Berlin
Harry Kane has firmly established himself as the heartbeat of the England squad. His value to the collective cause is now being compared to Lionel Messi’s influence on the Argentina national team, with both players serving as the ultimate difference-makers for their respective nations.
Former Three Lions striker Stan Collymore, speaking to GOAL, pointed out that Kane’s success is rooted in a level of consistency that many modern players lack. While others may prioritise club commitments or skip international windows, Kane has remained a constant presence through friendlies, qualifiers, and major tournaments alike.
Harry Kane has always been consistent. He has wanted to play for England and I think that’s been the most important thing at a time when it would be very easy to prioritise club football over international football. Stan Collymore
This dedication has allowed Kane to reach a level where he is the primary inspiration for the team. Manager Thomas Tuchel recently echoed this sentiment, suggesting that it is entirely logical for England to rely on a talisman of Kane’s quality, much like Argentina relies on Messi or France on Kylian Mbappe.
Following an impressive club season in Germany where he scored over 60 goals, Kane arrived at the World Cup in peak condition. He has already netted five times in the tournament, leading England’s charge through the group stages and into the knockout rounds.
England now faces a rigorous test in the last-16 against Mexico. The match is set to take place at altitude in the iconic Azteca Stadium, where the Three Lions will look to their captain once again to bridge the gap toward ending their 60-year trophy drought.