England Team Backs Harry Kane To Overcome Criticism In Netherlands Match

Harry Kane's England team-mates are confident their captain will rediscover his form in the semi-final against the Netherlands on Wednesday. Despite scoring twice in the tournament, including a crucial extra-time winner against Slovakia, Kane has struggled to find his usual sharpness. He managed only two shots against Switzerland in the quarter-finals before being substituted in extra time, with an expected goals tally of just 0.12.

Kane's performances have faced criticism, with some suggesting he should be benched for the match against the Netherlands. However, Trent Alexander-Arnold dismissed this idea, stating it would benefit their opponents. "Anyone who is facing England would like to see Harry Kane not playing," the defender told reporters. "You just know he is a threat. Anything in and around the box, you need to be on red alert. He can finish it from every angle."

Alexander-Arnold continued to praise Kane's abilities: "I always say he is the best finisher I've seen or played with. He can drop down and build play up and his hold-up play is incredible too." This sentiment reflects the team's belief in Kane's importance and capabilities.

England are participating in their third major tournament semi-final under Gareth Southgate. Kane scored the decisive goal that took them to the final of the Euros three years ago. Additionally, he shares the record for most knockout stage goals in the competition's history, five, alongside Antoine Griezmann.

Phil Foden also expressed confidence in Kane's ability to regain his scoring touch after finishing as top-scorer in the Bundesliga last season. "You can't really doubt him," Foden told Standard Sport. "He's been unbelievable for us in so many tournaments, and he's already scored a crucial goal in this tournament."

Kane's Role and Challenges

Foden highlighted how opposing teams' defensive strategies have made it difficult for Kane to find space. "The way teams have been playing, there's been a low block and the spaces are tight," he said. "I've seen that with Erling [Haaland] at club level. Sometimes it's nearly impossible for him to score because they've got two players man-marking him."

Kane's leadership and off-the-ball work were also noted by Foden: "Kane's a leader; he does a lot of work off the ball that people don't see. He's a valuable player and if we're going to win it, we're definitely going to need him." This underscores Kane's multifaceted contribution to the team beyond just scoring goals.

The team remains united behind their captain as they prepare for their crucial semi-final clash against the Netherlands, hoping Kane will once again demonstrate his prowess on the field.