‘Great leader’ Kane given thumbs up from Trippier

Harry Kane is leading the way on and off the field as England’s World Cup figurehead, according to team-mate Kieran Tripper.

Manager Gareth Southgate rotated the captaincy throughout the qualifying campaign but named the Tottenham striker as his tournament skipper last month citing his leadership qualities and hunger for success.

Kane was the first man on the to the training pitch at Spartak Zelenogorsk for yesterday’s session, a symbolic gesture, perhaps, but one which reflects how he has taken to the task.

“There’s no better person to lead us at the World Cup,” said Trippier, who plays with Kane for club and country.

“He’s a great leader, on and off the field, a top professional. Even off the field just speaking to him one-to-one. He’s a great person – if you ever need help he’s there for you as an individual or a group.”

Trippier, though, was eager to stress Kane’s burden did not extend to carrying the rest of the side in Russia.

He has been singled out by some pundits, including predecessor Teddy Sheringham, as England’s only worldclass player but Trippier gave the suggestion short shrift.

“Everyone knows what Harry Kane is all about, he’s a great goal scorer and a great professional, but if look all round this team we’ve got winners,” he said.

“We’ve got goals all around the pitch and not just Harry. We have a strong forward line – pace, youth – and all the the boys are looking forward to getting out there.”

Trippier looks set to start at right wing-back in England’s opening fixture against Tunisia on Monday, with Kyle Walker inked into a central three.

As well as providing ammunition from the flank and the corner flag, he has also emerged as a potential free-kick taker during the tournament.

He was the surprise choice to shoot when England took on Nigeria at Wembley and went close with a goalbound effort from 20 yards.

“If I’m feeling confident I’d love to take one but we’ve got some quality setpiece takers in the team,” he said.

“It’s about whoever is feeling confident at the right time to take the free-kick. If I score I’ll just do whatever comes into my head... I might just follow the emotion if it does happen.”

Marcus Rashford again sat out yesterday’s training session with a knee complaint but is expected to return today.

The 20-year-old also missed England’s first session in Russia on Wednesday but it was confirmed on ‘Lions’ Den’ show on England’s YouTube channel that he planned to join the full squad today.

Kieran Trippier: believes there is a goal threat throughout team.