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Harry Kane named England captain for Slovenia clash - but is it the right decision?

Eurosport
ByEurosport

Updated 04/10/2017 at 21:14 GMT

Harry Kane will captain England in their World Cup qualifier against Slovenia at Wembley on Thursday – a match that could seal their passage to Russia 2018.

England manager Gareth Southgate speaks with Harry Kane

Image credit: Reuters

Kane links up with his compatriots on the back of an incredible September, which saw him bag 13 goals for club and country.
"It makes me very proud," Kane said. "Walking out at Wembley Stadium will be amazing for me."
England also face Lithuania in the international double-header, with Gareth Southgate’s side requiring two points to secure a World Cup berth.
However, Southgate would not be drawn on Wayne Rooney’s long-term successor, with Joe Hart, Gary Cahill and Jordan Henderson all trialled in the role.
"The important thing was when we looked at the group of players... we saw potential leaders, but lads that haven't necessarily had experience of leading," the manager said.

OUR VIEW

Gareth Southgate would not be drawn on whether Kane would be appointed full-time captain, and appears to be trialling a number of candidates. What is certain is that Kane is in the conversation. It must be said this is a spectacularly bad idea.
Why saddle England’s most in-form player with the added responsibility of captaining the national team? Just let him play. Kane says it will not impact on the way he plays, but it almost certainly will. Obviously, the role of captain does not weigh as heavily as say in cricket but it will undoubtedly have an impact on his game.
Furthermore, Southgate should know his captain in his by now. Plus, Kane is just 24 and only has 21 England caps.
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