Klinsmann pens a column for The Sun, discussing Harry Kane’s value to the England national team. He argues that coaches don’t concern themselves with a striker’s touches and that England should not consider dropping Kane.
Klinsmann writes. England had underwhelming performances in their first two Euro matches. Kane has faced criticism, with stats suggesting limited involvement: one shot on target in the opener, and just one touch in the box in the second game. Yet, that’s the nature of a forward’s role – sometimes you barely touch the ball but score twice, other times you control it often without finding the net. As long as the team wins, strikers are preferred for goals, not touches.
All forwards think this way. You live to score as a striker. Goals fuel your energy and confidence to attack. Of course, it depends on the attention opponents give you. If marked by two defenders, you might have to retreat to receive passes. Coaches care about a player’s presence, their connection with the rest of the team. If Kane continues to contribute to the team, the number of touches doesn’t matter.
Calmness is needed regarding Kane. Suggestions to bench or rest him in the final group game are absurd. Southgate risks disrupting team chemistry. In major tournaments, you don’t want to unsettle your stars. Kane is the team’s leader; his absence would boost opponents’ confidence. Yes, he’s not at his peak, dealing with back issues and striving to regain form. You can’t expect seven outstanding performances in a row at the Euros; even the best have off days.
The criticism aimed at Kane after the Denmark match surprised me. Perhaps expectations were too high, leading to disappointment. A tournament has two phases: the group stage, where England aimed to qualify, and the knockouts, with similar ups and downs. England remains in control of their fate. There’s little time for reflection; they must focus on the next match.
The use of Alexander-Arnold was unsuccessful, and Southgate’s main issue lies at left-back.
