GLORY AWAITS LIONS...

I HONESTLY don’t think it’s a big stretch any more to believe Harry Kane will lead England to a major trophy.

Watching them in Italy, it was obvious to me they’re a team who know what they’re about.

The squad have been together for some time now, they know what they’re doing, they know what it takes.

They’ve been there in a quarter-final, a semi and a final. And now they have the extra bit of experience to take that final step . . . without going over the top in terms of ageing legs.

That dream combination is there – youth AND experience. There are very few weak links and the added bonus of players such as John Stones (above) emerging as real leaders.

I thought that he was outstanding in Naples, he’s matured into a fine footballer and an equally strong leader.

He controlled everything at the back, passed the ball brilliantly, defended with grit and, when the pressure was on at the end, was always there to relieve it.

Maybe one more quality centre-half in the squad could make another difference, and perhaps the emergence of another midfielder with quality on the ball. But you look at this squad and, no doubt, they’re one of the best teams in the world now.

They were unlucky against France at the World Cup finals, losing in the quarters.

You can always miss a penalty – I’ve missed a fair few, but still consider myself an expert just as Kane undoubtedly is – and, had that one gone in, then England would have been favourites to go on and win.

So that’s how close they are, and now they have that perfect sweet spot . . . so there are no more excuses!