Kane’s future on line as wait for trophy goes on

AS far-fetched as it sounds, Harry Kane had a big red cross on his calendar on yesterday’s date. July 12, 2020, the day Kane (right) would finally lift a trophy. The Euro 2020 final, at Wembley, captaining England — it would certainly have been worth the wait for the Tottenham striker. The coronavirus pandemic has, at least for a year, put paid to that dream. For a footballer of such ability, Kane’s trophy drought really is a travesty. For now, Tottenham cling to slim hopes of reaching the Champions League, though their inconsistent form suggests they will fall short. But even if they do stay at Chief Football Reporter

European football’s top table, it will be the bare minimum for Kane, a footballer who shouldn’t be satisfied with the bare minimum. He is in grave danger of missing the parade and he knows it. Jose Mourinho has vowed to win trophies at Tottenham provided the club trust his vision; and he is given time and money, of course. But those two things are not necessarily associated with Spurs chairman Daniel Levy, particularly with the significant financial constraints afflicting Spurs this summer. And time is a commodity Kane does not have — he is 27 later this month. Just look at Mason Greenwood’s emergence at Manchester United. He is already being tipped to succeed Kane as England’s No 9. Life comes at you fast in the Premier League and Kane must be under no illusions. Tottenham are a work in progress under Mourinho and who is to say when he can deliver an end to their 12-year trophy drought, if at all? And an FA Cup or League Cup will not be enough to satisfy Kane, nor should it be. Mourinho is adamant Kane will be a Tottenham player next season. Given the financial uncertainty gripping world football, the smart money suggests he will get his way. But surely one of European football’s elite will have a crack if there is any inkling that Kane wants to move away. For now, the Spurs striker must accept he is no closer to lifting a trophy for club or country than he was this time last year. Three points in the north London derby soften the blow, but for how long?