Harry Kane has responded to Gary Lineker’s criticism of England’s Euro 2024 campaign by stressing the impact that former national team players’ words can have. Kane acknowledged that pundits have a duty to be honest but emphasized the responsibility that former players have in considering the challenges of representing England, given the nation’s historical failures in major tournaments. He urged ex-players to be mindful of the influence their words can have on current players and to provide support rather than criticism.
Following England’s 1-1 draw with Denmark, Lineker called the performance "s****", prompting Kane to address the issue of ex-players’ comments. Kane highlighted the difficulty for players to ignore criticism in the current media landscape and stressed the importance of building players’ confidence rather than tearing them down. He emphasized the shared goal of winning a major tournament and called for a more supportive approach from former players in their commentary on the team’s performances.
Lineker, a former England striker, had expressed his disappointment with England’s lacklustre display against Denmark, describing it as lethargic and dour. Kane, who scored his first goal of the Euros in that game, acknowledged his own performance had not been up to par in the opening fixtures. However, he expressed a calm and determined approach, focusing on improvement and acknowledging the need for better performances from himself and the team in the knockout stages.
Despite concerns over his fitness, Kane reassured that he is feeling fresh and fit, with no injury worries heading into the final group stage match against Slovenia. He highlighted the importance of peaking at the right time in major tournaments, emphasizing the need for players to be at their best in the knockout stages. With England currently sitting at the top of Group C with four points, Kane expressed confidence in the team’s ability to improve and deliver better performances in the upcoming matches.
Kane reflected on England’s tactical struggles in the opening games, particularly against teams playing with a back three formation. He noted the difficulties in pressing and maintaining possession in those matches and suggested that facing a back four in the upcoming game against Slovenia could present a different challenge. Kane emphasized the importance of showing energy and enthusiasm, especially without the ball, to improve the team’s overall performance on the pitch.
In conclusion, Kane’s response to Lineker’s criticism and his insights into England’s performance at Euro 2024 shed light on the team’s mindset and determination to improve. Despite challenges and critical commentary, Kane and the squad remain focused on their goals and are committed to delivering better performances in the knockout stages. With a mix of experience, calmness, and a desire to learn from past mistakes, England’s campaign at the Euros continues with a renewed sense of determination and unity.
