Southgate praise for “the best” Kane

England manager Gareth Southgate seems to have given another clear hint that Harry Kane will be named his permanent captain after branding the Walthamstow born striker the best finisher he has ever worked with, according to The Telegraph.

The in-form Kane was again on target,in another underwhelming England team performance against Lithuania, notching a 27th minute penalty to secure another three points for the Three Lions as they ended the qualification run undefeated.

Kane’s penalty was his seventh international goal in his last six games and he is now surely edging towards the armband ahead of next year’s World Cup in Russia.

“It’s a fantastic record,” said Southgate. “His finishing quality is top, as good as anyone I’ve played with or worked with.

“I’m never in doubt that, if he has a good opportunity, it’ll be on target  and there’s a fair chance he scores. We’re fortunate to have him.

“I couldn’t be happier with he way he’s led, both in terms of by example on  the pitch with his performances, but also with the group. I know everyone  wants me to get a shift on [and name the captain], but, again, I want to  give myself time.”

Harry Winks was the only other highlight in a desperately drab affair in Vilnius. Winks,making his senior England debut, gave a mature performance in midfield and the article claims that the youngster will have given himself a genuine chance of becoming a surprise inclusion for Southgate’s World Cup squad.

Of the young midfielder the England manager said: “One of the big things playing for England isn’t  necessarily the opposition, but whether you can carry the England shirt.

“Harry showed he could, he tried to carry the ball forward where he could  and did well. He was really calm, his use of the ball was excellent.”

With qualification secure England will next prepare for friendlies against Germany and Brazil ahead of the World Cup finals in Russia. Its been a whirlwind few weeks for Winks but if he continues to show a level of maturity beyond his years he certainly will have a massive chance in booking a place on the plane to Russia.

Let us have your thoughts on Winks. With uncertainty over Mousa Dembele’s fitness could the young man seize the opportunity to cement a place in Mauricio Pochettino’s starting 11 as well as Gareth Southgate’s.

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