Gary Lineker Hails Harry Kane as England’s Greatest Striker

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Gary Lineker has labeled Harry Kane the “greatest striker” England has ever had, following the forward’s record-equalling World Cup goal in a 2-1 victory over Croatia on June 18, 2026. The former England striker made the remarks during a Netflix show appearance, where he reflected on Kane’s performance while watching the match alongside former England player Frank Lampard.

Kane scored his 11th World Cup goal in the 59th minute, matching the all-time England record set by Lineker in the 1980s. The goal came after a 12-minute first-half penalty miss, which Kane converted in the 78th minute to secure the win. The match, part of Group A, saw England move to the top of the standings with six points from two games.

Lineker, speaking to the BBC, emphasized Kane’s consistency and composure. “Harry is the greatest striker England has had. His ability to perform under pressure, his positioning, and his goal-scoring record speak for themselves,” Lineker said. The comment follows Kane’s recent milestone of surpassing Wayne Rooney as England’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals, a feat highlighted by ex-Tottenham and England midfielder Darren Anderton in a Goal.com interview.

Anderton, who played 64 times for England, suggested Kane could extend his record further. “Harry still has a few years left. He’s in peak physical condition, and his understanding of the game is elite,” Anderton said. Kane, 30, has scored 12 goals in 15 World Cup qualifiers and has been a consistent presence in England’s attack since his 2015 debut.

The match against Croatia saw Kane’s performance scrutinized by pundits. While his first-half penalty miss drew criticism, his second goal showcased his clinical finishing. Croatia’s defender Domagoj Vida noted Kane’s impact. “He’s a threat every time he’s on the ball. We tried to mark him, but he found space,” Vida said.

Kane’s record-equalling goal came in his 23rd World Cup appearance, making him the most capped English player in tournament history. The feat places him alongside legends like Geoff Hurst and Bobby Moore. Lineker, who won the 1986 World Cup Golden Boot, acknowledged Kane’s potential to break the record. “If he keeps playing at this level, he could go beyond 12 or 13 goals,” Lineker added.

England’s next match, a Group A clash against Iran on June 23, will determine their path to the knockout stages. Manager Gareth Southgate has praised Kane’s leadership. “Harry’s hunger to succeed is unmatched. He sets the standard for the team,” Southgate said.

The debate over England’s greatest striker has long centered on Lineker, Hurst, and Alan Shearer. Kane’s achievements, however, have shifted the narrative. With 79 goals for England and a World Cup goal record in sight, his legacy now includes both club and international milestones.

Kane’s World Cup journey began in 2014, where he scored three goals as England reached the quarterfinals. His 2022 campaign saw him finish as the tournament’s top scorer with eight goals, though England exited in the round of 16. The 2026 campaign has reignited discussions about his place in English football history.

Sources: BBC, Goal.com, London Evening Standard, Irish Independent, The Sun.

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Kane’s performance against Croatia highlighted his adaptability. Despite a slow start, he orchestrated England’s attack, creating chances for Raheem Sterling and Jude Bellingham. His second goal, a low finish after a swift counterattack, underscored his finishing ability.

The match drew 62,000 spectators at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, marking one of the largest World Cup crowds in U.S. history. Fans praised Kane’s resilience. “He’s a warrior. Missing that penalty showed his human side, but he came back stronger,” said supporter Mark Thompson.

Croatia’s manager Zlatko Dalić acknowledged Kane’s influence. “He’s a world-class player. We knew he’d be a challenge, but we didn’t expect him to equal the record,” Dalić said. Croatia, aiming for a third consecutive World Cup quarterfinal, now faces a critical match against Mexico on June 20.

Kane’s record-equalling goal was celebrated globally. Social media trends featured hashtags like #KaneRecord and #EnglandStriker, with fans comparing him to past greats. Former England captain David Beckham tweeted, “Harry’s work ethic is unmatched. He’s rewriting the script.”

The World Cup 2026 has provided a platform for Kane to solidify his legacy. His 11th goal in the tournament brings him within one of surpassing the all-time record, a feat that could occur in England’s final group match against Iran.

Kane’s club form with Bayern Munich this season has also been exceptional. He scored 22 league goals in 2025-2026, earning Bundesliga Player of the Year honors. His dual success at club and international levels has positioned him as a pivotal figure for England.

Lineker’s endorsement adds weight to Kane’s case. “He’s not just a goalscorer; he’s a complete player. His intelligence and work rate make him unique,” Lineker said. The comparison to Lineker, who won the 1986 World Cup, underscores Kane’s potential to achieve similar milestones.

As England prepares for their next game, the focus remains on Kane’s ability to deliver under pressure. With three World Cup matches remaining, his performance could define his legacy.

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Sources: BBC, Goal.com, London Evening Standard, Irish Independent, The Sun.

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Kane’s journey to England’s all-time scoring record began in 2015,