England boss Gareth Southgate gives his verdict on Harry Kane’s performances at Euro 2024 and drops hint ahead of semi-finals

England manager Gareth Southgate has given his verdict on Harry Kane’s performances at Euro 2024 so far.

Although he has scored two goals in five appearances, Kane has often found things difficult in general.

The England captain has had to endure long periods without the ball and there have been suggestions in some quarters that Southgate should consider leaving Kane out for the semi-final clash against the Netherlands.

Ivan Toney, who has been a substitute in the last two games, and Ollie Watkins are alternative options in attack.

Kane was withdrawn in extra time against Switzerland but will be fit for the semi-final in England.

Southgate admitted Kane may not have been at his best so far but praised the 30-year-old for his overall contribution to the team.

As reported by MirrorSouthgate said: ‘I mean every game has been slightly different, I think Harry did a great job for the team in terms of his defensive positioning, his understanding of where he needed to be.

“He may not be as fluid in getting into those deeper areas as he sometimes seems with his passing and stuff, but he’s still playing a huge role for the group.”

There have been calls in some quarters for Kane to be ruled out of the Netherlands game.

However, Southgate remains faithful to Kane and seems unlikely to leave him out.

Southgate’s comments appear to suggest that Kane is unlikely to be left out of the starting lineup against the Netherlands.

Just before he was substituted against Switzerland, Kane flew towards the England dugout and collided with Southgate after competing for the ball with Manuel Akanji.

Despite the criticism he has received from outside the team, Kane boasts a record of 65 goals in 96 appearances for England and certainly appears to retain Southgate’s trust.

Kane found the net in England’s draw against Denmark in the group stage and scored the winner against Slovakia in the round of 16.