Kane salute for Rooney’s big send-off
HARRY KANE has revealed Gareth Southgate consulted senior England players before he decided to hand Wayne Rooney his 120th and final cap.
And the man who led England to Russia this summer says he has no problem handing over the captain’s armband if the former Three Lions skipper is given a late cameo appearance as a substitute as expected in the friendly against the USA at Wembley next Thursday.
In the same way, Spain are planning to recognise the achievements of David Silva with a ceremonial kick-off in their friendly game against Bosnia-Herzegovina on Sunday week. That match will be played in Gran Canaria, where Silva was born.
Meanwhile, the FA have come under criticism for “cheapening” the value of an England cap by taking the unprecedented decision to play Rooney at some point in the game against USA, not on merit but as recognition of his service to the country in 15 years as an international player.
But Kane said the squad has no problems with giving grace-and-favour awards to senior England players – not least the country’s record goalscorer with 53 goals.
“We spoke previously about doing something for the players who have amazing milestones, amazing international careers,” he said.
“It was me and the gaffer and a couple of players. I didn’t know it was going to be this week but I knew it was an idea that Gareth wanted to do.
“Wayne was an amazing player for us, one of our greatest-ever players. It will be nice to see him again and train with him again.
“I think the fans will embrace it. We should all embrace it and give him the send-off he deserves.”
Rooney will not be named the official captain if he is not in the starting line-up.
But Kane admitted that once he is on the pitch, it is inevitable he will become the natural leader.
“Would I give him the armband? Yes, of course,” said Kane. “He deserves it. He was a great captain for us.”
Despite not scoring in his last seven games, Kane has already racked up 19 goals in 34 England matches. By the same number of games, Rooney had managed just 11 and the question is whether the Spurs player can wrestle top spot off the United legend.
“Hopefully I can keep fit and healthy and score a few more goals and we’ll see in a few years how close I am,” said Kane.
His more immediate concern after Tuesday is keeping Tottenham in the Champions League. Kane’s late double in the 2-1 win over PSV kept their chances alive but the only way they can guarantee finishing in the top two in Group B is to win their last two matches.
“We had no other choice but to win to stay in the competition,” said Kane. “It will give us huge belief.”