Bellingham hails Kane as England's greatest after record-equalling 125th cap

Harry Kane equalled Peter Shilton’s record of 125 England appearances on Tuesday night, marking the milestone with two goals and an assist as England beat the Czech Republic 3-0 in their UEFA Nations League Group A3 fixture at Wembley.

Kane’s cross was turned into his own net by Vladimir Coufal for England’s third, capping a commanding display that prompted an outpouring of praise from his teammates and manager. He was substituted late on to a standing ovation before being replaced by Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

Jude Bellingham was among the most effusive in his assessment. “First and foremost he is an unbelievable human being,” Bellingham told ITV. “As a captain, as a man, he looks after every single person. He’s the one to take responsibility off the pitch. And on the pitch he’s the best England player to have worn the shirt. It’s an honour to play with him. He’s playing at a level that is unmatched. He’s scoring goals for fun, he’s dropping deep and playing passes in behind and contributing, making tackles and everything. He’s only getting better.”

Thomas Tuchel was equally admiring, if more succinct. “It’s what he does. I don’t take it for granted,” the England manager said with a smile. “He is just exceptional every single match. It’s difficult to find words for him.”

The result continues a strong international window for Tuchel’s side. England had already beaten the Czech Republic 2-0 in Prague and thrashed Croatia 7-0 away before Tuesday’s win at Wembley. Those results leave England second in Group A3, behind Spain — who defeated England 3-2 in the opening game of this window and have already secured their place in the Nations League quarter-finals.

England’s own qualification is now a formality. They need only avoid an 8-0 defeat to Croatia at home in November to seal their spot in the last eight, scheduled for March.