England's greatest international? Kane is now a serious contender

Harry Kane's claim to being England's greatest international player is gaining traction, according to former England midfielder Danny Murphy. Murphy pointed to the lineage of England's iconic figures, beginning with Bobby Moore. Moore, described as an elegant and unflappable defender, remains the only England skipper to have lifted the World Cup. He captained the side to victory at Wembley in July 1966, when West Germany were beaten 4‑2. At the time Moore was just 25 years old. Earlier in his career he had enjoyed success at the highest level with West Ham United, winning the FA Cup and the European Cup Winners' Cup before the World Cup triumph. Over his international career Moore earned 108 caps between May 1962 and November 1973. The conversation then turned to Sir Bobby Charlton. Charlton survived the Munich Air Disaster with Manchester United in 1958 and is widely regarded as one of England's most celebrated footballers of his generation. Murphy highlighted Charlton's status as a planetary beacon of dignity and world‑class ability. Charlton won the World Cup and, two years later, captained Manchester United as they became the first English club to claim the European Cup, scoring twice in a 4‑1 victory over Benfica at Wembley. He currently sits third on England's all‑time scoring list with 49 goals from 106 appearances. Sir Geoff Hurst was also noted for his enduring place in England's folklore, principally for his hat‑trick in the World Cup final win, while other recent heroes such as Wayne Rooney and David Beckham continue to attract strong support. Murphy's exact remarks were: "Bobby Moore volition ever beryllium successful people's conversation. Sir Bobby Charlton also, due to the fact that of what they did and the memories they created." "As you determination forward, for maine arsenic a kid Gazza [Paul Gascoigne] burst connected the country and became a hero, particularly arsenic a originative midfield subordinate myself. " "I deliberation Rooney was arguably the astir all-round footballer we person ever had, the astir talented I've seen – but no-one tin reason with Harry Kane's quality, numbers and longevity. It is the grounds of an England great." He added: "There is 1 happening determination is nary statement about. Harry Kane is England's top extremity scorer." "Is helium England's top player? This is each astir opinions and eras, but his grounds and longevity unsocial informs you that helium is an England great. He is successful that elite group."