England's greatest international? Kane is now a serious contender

What the report says

Harry Kane is poised to equal Peter Shilton’s England appearance record of 125 caps if he plays against the Czech Republic at Wembley in a UEFA Nations League match, according to BBC Sport Football. The piece places the England captain in a wider debate about where he belongs among the country’s all-time greats, noting that he is already England’s record goalscorer with 89 goals in 124 matches and has been a central figure since his debut in 2015.

BBC Sport highlights Kane’s longevity, major-tournament scoring record and consistency at the top level. It also points to his 21 goals in major tournaments, his five hat-tricks for England and his continued importance for both country and club. Former England players Danny Murphy and Paul Robinson are quoted arguing that Kane is already an England great, with Robinson saying his standing may become even clearer in the future.

The article also sets Kane alongside historic names such as Bobby Moore, Sir Bobby Charlton and Sir Geoff Hurst, while acknowledging the argument against placing him at the very top: England’s lack of a major men’s trophy during Kane’s era. BBC Sport notes that he has reached two World Cup semi-finals and two European Championship finals without winning silverware, but says his record and influence mean he is now a serious contender in the conversation about England’s greatest player.