Declan Rice and his England teammates never doubt Harry Kane, despite the fact that the Three Lions captain failed to score a goal in the World Cup group stage.
England have scored nine goals en route to finishing in Group B, but Kane is yet to reach his goal in Qatar.
Kane, who won the Golden Boot in Russia four years ago and only two behind Wayne Rooney’s record-setting 53 Three Lions goals, created three goals for England and became the first English player to have three assists in a World Cup since David Beckham. in 2002.
But Rice has full confidence that Kane will succeed in the playoffs.
“I don’t think we should ever doubt Harry,” the midfielder said at a press conference on Thursday. “His performance speaks for itself, what he has done for England.
“If you are looking, now there are two transmissions against Iran for [Raheem] Sterling and another night for Phil [Foden, against Wales].
“Now he has adapted his role where he likes to step in and tie up the play. I think it’s good where we have fast runners.
“We are all rooting for him to score. He’s our captain, that’s what we need. I’m sure he will. Now he will score in the playoffs.”
Look at Senegal! pic.twitter.com/F4Bim0c3cp
— England (@England) December 1, 2022
Rice started his third consecutive game in the tournament against Wales on Tuesday but saw close friend Mason Mount sidelined in a reshuffle.
The Chelsea playmaker has often been criticized on social media as Gareth Southgate’s presumed favorite, but Rice said Mount’s accomplishments speak for themselves.
“I don’t need to talk too much about Mase,” Rice said. “You know he’s one of the best players I’ve played with. I think that’s why Gareth is so passionate about him.
“He’s just a team player. His performance at Chelsea is incredible. He won the Champions League, he won the Super Cup and for the rest of his career he can go on and be who he wants to be.
“Let [him] go and do your thing. When he does that, I’m happy to see my good friend go and perform at the best level.”
