Harry Kane has had his say on England’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup finals and controversy surrounding Thomas Tuchel’s comments around the Three Lions’ fans.
England captain Harry Kane has spoken out on the controversy surrounding Thomas Tuchel’s criticism of fans at Wembley Stadium last week. The Three Lions manager tore into ‘silent’ supporters as his side eased past Wales in last Thursday’s 3-0 friendly win beneath the famous arch.
Tuchel’s comments were, subsequently, referenced by away supporters during England’s dominant 5-0 victory in Latvia on Tuesday – which saw his squad secure qualification for next summer’s World Cup. Travelling fans in Riga were heard chanting: “Thomas Tuchel, we’ll sing when we want” and “Thomas Tuchel, are we loud enough for you?”
The away supporters had plenty to cheer in Latvia, as well, with goals from Anthony Gordon, Eberechi Eze, two from Kane and a Maksims Tonisevs own goal maintaining England’s 100 per cent record in qualifying. The Three Lions have won every game without conceding a goal so far – and they have booked their spot at the showcase.
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And Kane has now piled praise on the travelling fans. “I know Thomas came out after the last game and said the fans weren’t great, but I don’t think you can question our away support ever,” he told ITV Sport.
“The way they were tonight was fantastic. And look, we’ve qualified for another major tournament.
“We know the England fans enjoy going out – and America’s going to be a special place to play – and we’ve got something to look forward to now. Yeah, credit to them for travelling out here and showing the noise they did.”
Kane also believes that the manner of England’s qualification is an achievement. “Qualifying with two games to go is a great achievement, zero goals conceded and playing some great football,” he added.
“You want competition in every place and position – we have that. There’s still some [other] fantastic players who aren’t here, and we’re going to need them as well.
“It’s going to be a little bit chop-and-change going into a major tournament, we’ve got some fantastic players who are not quite fit or injured but that’s it – keep pushing each other.”
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