Harry Kane has declared himself "extremely proud" to be leading a genuinely golden generation of young English players.
Gareth Southgate’s skipper led the condemnation of the racist abuse aimed at his black team-mates as they came from a goal down to batter hosts Montenegro 5-1, but thought it important to salute the impact so many of the fearless newcomers have had on this exciting England squad.
After captaining Declan Rice and Callum Hudson-Odoi on their full debuts, Tottenham striker Kane said: “I’m extremely proud. Not so long ago, I was 21 and making my debut and these guys are even younger, so it’s great for our nation.
“It’s great for me to watch and maybe help coach along the way… me, Hendo [Jordan Henderson] and Walks [Kyle Walker], people like that. It’s down to us to be leaders in the team, show people how we want to do things.
How England's World Cup 2022 squad could look
“Everyone has been great. They’ve come in and we haven’t had to tell them much. We’ve just told them to express themselves and that’s what they’ve done.
“They just want the ball. They just want to get on the ball, play one-versus-one, and attack. For me, that’s perfect. I could just leave them to it.
“It’s been a great camp and now we look forward to the summer.”
England are right up there with the world’s best after Montenegro romp
England, who also scored five in winning their opening Euro 2020 qualifier against the Czech Republic last Friday, could end their long wait for silverware then by winning the Nations League with a semi against the Netherlands on June 6 before the final three days later.
Looking back on the week, Southgate said: “Our attacking threat through the two games has been exceptional. We’re really pleased, lotsof encouraging things and the young players have come in and done really well. I’m proud of the whole group of players.”
