England coach hopes Kane improves record in World Cup final

England manager Gareth Southgate has a dream scenario in mind for Harry Kane. The striker is well on his way to relieve Wayne Rooney as England’s all-time top scorer. Kane scored his 49th goal for England from a penalty kick in the friendly match against Switzerland (2-1) on Saturday, equaling Bobby Charlton in second place in the ‘eternal’ ranking.

The 28-year-old top scorer of Tottenham Hotspur needs four more goals to equalize with record holder Rooney. After the win over Switzerland, Southgate was asked whether he hopes that Kane will improve the record before the World Cup in Qatar, so that this can no longer be a distraction for the attacker. “I would like him to take over the record in the World Cup final,” the national coach replied with a grin.

“His name is on the list of incredibly big names. It means a lot to Harry that he is in there. He is the man who can go for the record,” said Southgate. “Harry is calm about it, he is confident he can surpass Rooney’s record. His goal-per-game average is unbelievable. I think only Jimmy Greaves can show off those numbers.”

Kane needed 68 caps to score 49 goals, an average of 0.72. Charlton played 106 caps. Rooney wore the national team shirt 120 times.