Martin Keown has told The Mail that Tottenham striker and England captain Harry Kane will be “struggling to breathe” in Qatar because goals are “like oxygen” to him – with the Spurs man failing to score at the World Cup so far.
Kane, 29, flew to Qatar in superb form – scoring 13 goals in 22 outings. The Tottenham man has started all three World Cup matches for England. Even though the Three Lions have scored nine times, Kane has not opened his account.
However, Kane has laid on three assists. The England captain created two goals in the win over Iran, laying on assists for Marcus Rashford and Raheem Sterling. Then, an assist for Phil Foden, which Alan Shearer described as “quality”.
Arsenal legend Keown was discussing if Kane will be worried regarding his lack of goals. While it does not matter given his assists, he believes it will be bothering Kane. He says goals are oxygen to Kane, and he will be struggling to breathe.
He also compared him to David Beckham: “Goals are like oxygen for Kane. He will be struggling to breathe. But it isn’t as if he’s not been contributing. His assists have been reminiscent of Beckham. That low cross for Foden was sublime.”
Keown: Tottenham striker Kane will be struggling to breathe
If that is the case, Kane has got to remember that he has created three goals for England. It might not be him on the end of a goal – but he is creating chances for his teammates. England are spreading the goals out and that is a positive.
It is fair to say Kane has been one of England’s best players so far. Harry Maguire has been superb, Luke Shaw is impressing in attack and defence. Jude Bellingham continues to blow fans and pundits away. But Kane is right up there.
However, it would be nice for Kane to just get himself a goal. Perhaps, starting on Sunday when England take on Senegal in the first knockout round against Senegal. England will be favourites, but it is going to be a tough ask.
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