England striker Harry Kane has praised Raheem Sterling for replicating his scintillating club form at international level over the last twelve months.
Sterling scored in England's 4-0 win over Bulgaria on Saturday for his seventh goal in seven caps for England, to go with his 25 club goals last term and six strikes in five Manchester City appearances this season.
Kane netted a hat-trick against Bulgaria, with Sterling scoring the other as well as creating England's first at Wembley.
Sterling pounced on poor Bulgarian defending to set up Kane for a simple finish, before Kane returned the favour for England's third as Sterling knocked in from close range.
Both efforts bore a striking resemblance to the type of goal frequently scored under Pep Guardiola, with players encouraged to pass to teammates in better positions in-front of goal to increase the chance of scoring.
And Kane says Sterling's form with City has benefited England.
"It is great for him, he has taken his club form into internationals the last couple of years," Kane explained.
"He is an amazing player to play with and he set me up for a nice, easy one and I managed to repay the favour towards the end."
Manager Gareth Southgate also praised Sterling's contribution against Bulgaria, but hinted that he could have staked his own claim for Kane's match ball.
"He will be disappointed he hasn't got the hat-trick as he thrives on scoring goals," Southgate told ITV.
"I thought he was electric and carried the threat from the first whistle."
