Sept 9 (Askume) – England captain Harry Kane took inspiration from the career of Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of his 100th Nations League match against Finland at Wembley on Tuesday.
The 31-year-old Bayern Munich forward has scored 66 goals in 99 internationals since making his debut in 2015 and is the first man to score a century for England since Wayne Rooney in November 2014.
Kane will become the 10th player to reach 100 caps for England, referring to Ronaldo, when the 39-year-old Portugal captain scored his 901st career goal in Sunday’s 2-1 win over Nations League Scotland team.
“I feel in very good shape, physically and mentally, at the peak of my career,” Kane told reporters on Monday.
“I love this game, I love nothing more than playing for England and I don’t want that to end any time soon. For me personally the focus now is on continuing to improve in an England shirt and at club level, it’s about survival.”
“I’m hungry for more. I’m determined to push the boundaries.”
The FA will hold a special pre-match ceremony to pay tribute to Kane ahead of the Nations League Group B2 match against Finland, where the Golden Cap will also be awarded.
“Really special”
“It’s really special,” said Kane, “I always say it’s hard to comprehend sometimes when you’re playing. I’ve talked about the goal record before but this time I’ll have to think about it, but I’m very proud.” “
“This is a very exciting moment for me and my family will be there to enjoy it and I’m sure I’ll remember this moment when I retire.”
Meanwhile, England interim head coach Lee Carsley said he is enjoying his time with the squad.
Carsley has coached England Under-21s since 2021 and led them to the European Championship last year. Rice is Southgate’s full-time successor.
Carsley made his England debut in England’s 2-0 win over Ireland on Saturday .
“I think it’s obvious that I’ve been in three training camps now. I’m very happy with that and even though it’s changed, I’m happy with it. I’m very happy with where I am in the lower leagues – the 21s. Happy,” Carsley said.
“It’s not the coach, it’s the team – they need to be in the spotlight and draw attention to themselves.”
Carsley says England will make two or three changes against Finland.
