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

Harry Kane equalled Peter Shilton’s all-time England appearance record on his 125th cap against the Czech Republic in the UEFA Nations League, scoring twice and providing an assist in a comfortable Three Lions victory. Jude Bellingham used the occasion to make a bold declaration, naming Kane the greatest player ever to represent England.

“On the pitch he’s the best England player to have worn the shirt,” Bellingham told ITV. “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.”

Bellingham was equally effusive about Kane the person, adding: “First and foremost he is an unbelievable human being. As a captain, as a man, he looks after every single person. He’s the one to take responsibility off the pitch.”

England manager Thomas Tuchel was similarly full of admiration when asked to assess Kane’s display. “It’s what he does. I don’t take it for granted. He is just exceptional every single match. It’s difficult to find words for him,” Tuchel said with a smile.

Kane’s standing in English football history is already beyond dispute statistically. His 91 international goals dwarf Wayne Rooney’s national record of 53, a tally so commanding that it may never be surpassed. He also claimed the World Cup Golden Boot in 2018 and has featured in two major tournament finals and two semi-finals with England, even if silverware has so far eluded him.

The 33-year-old Bayern Munich striker is now in contention for the Ballon d’Or, which would make him the first Englishman in 25 years to claim the award and only the fifth English player to do so. The combination of his club form, his record-breaking international career, and the growing chorus of praise from teammates and coaches alike means the debate over his place among England’s all-time greats appears, for Bellingham at least, already settled.