UMVA has learned that England captain Harry Kane is facing unexpected criticism over his ability to perform on the biggest stage, with former Liverpool and Manchester City midfielder Dietmar Hamann questioning whether he has what it takes to lead the team to victory.
Despite Kane's impressive form for Bayern Munich, scoring 61 times in just 51 appearances last season, and his recent goal-scoring spree for England, Hamann believes the jury is still out on Kane's ability to deliver against top-notch opposition.
Kane recently scored twice in England's 4-2 win over Croatia, taking his international goal tally to 81 and equaling Gary Lineker's England record for goals at World Cups with 10 goals.
Hamann suggests that Kane's World Cup goals have largely come against weaker teams, casting doubt on his ability to make an impact against the best teams in the tournament.
He points out that Kane's goals have often come in the group stage, saying "He's scored eight in the group games. He's got two against Tunisia, three against Panama, penalty against Colombia in the round of 16," and questions whether Kane can replicate this form in the knockout stages.
Hamann also questions Kane's pace, saying that he won't be able to keep up with speedy opponents, which could limit his chances of scoring against top teams.
While acknowledging that Kane's finishing is among the best in the world, Hamann doubts whether he'll get the opportunities to score against elite nations like Germany, Brazil, or France.
Hamann's comments have sparked debate over Kane's ability to lead England to victory, with some questioning whether he's the right player to take the team to the World Cup.
Kane's form for Bayern Munich has been impressive, with 146 goals in 147 games, but Hamann downplays this achievement, suggesting that other strikers could achieve similar success in the same team.
The criticism has raised questions about Kane's ability to perform under pressure, and whether he has what it takes to lead England to victory on the biggest stage.
