Walker hits back over Nev’s Kane ‘world-class’ call
KYLE Walker ‘disagrees massively’ with Gary Neville’s claim Harry Kane is the only world-class player in the England team.
The City defender is expected to be one of Gareth Southgate’s key players at the World Cup, with their campaign getting underway tonight when they play Tunisia.
While not his preferred position, Walker has been playing as one of three central defenders in the back line, with former club team-mate Kieran Trippier to his right.
Spirits are high within the camp, and Neville’s claim Tottenham striker Kane is the only world-class player did not sit well with Walker.
“I disagree massively,” he said when the claim was put to him.
“I think we’re all here on merit, on club form.
“We’ve all shown fine form throughout the season.
“That’s his opinion. He’s entitled to his opinion.
“I look up to him a lot but I feel to say there is only one world-class player in the England team is a little bit harsh on the rest.
“I think there’s a lot of exciting talent in the dressing room.
“Others have to step forward, it’s a fact. Harry Kane can’t win the game alone.”
Former United captain Neville, on punditry duty for ITV, did see Walker’s point and clarified his definition of a world-class player.
“I do think that Harry is the only player in the England squad that at this moment in time you could guarantee could go into nearly any XI in the tournament. That’s how I define world-class,” he said.
“I do agree with what Kyle said. There’s a lot of exciting, young talent and the manager has great belief in them.”