Gareth Southgate backs Harry Kane to become England’s leading goalscorer as he prepare for 50th cap

Gareth Southgate has backed England captain Harry Kane to become the country’s record goalscorer as the Tottenham forward prepares to win his 50th cap.

Kane already has 32 England goals to his name, putting him sixth on the all-time list and 21 behind Wayne Rooney.

The Tottenham striker was rested for Thursday’s 3-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland, but is expected to be one of several established stars brought back into the side for Sunday’s nations League game against Belgium.

Southgate said: ‘In terms of what is possible, the goalscoring record is the really interesting one because his strike rate for us is phenomenal and he has time on his side to chase Wayne Rooney’s record which would be a remarkable feat.

‘I know from his perspective, while the personal achievement is something he is driven towards, it is the team achievement.

‘He is so focused on the team having success and he would want to look back over the next few years at the team achieving.’

Asked about a stand-out moment for Kane on the international scene, Southgate said his first goal always springs to mind.

He was England Under-21 boss at the time and had worked with the Spurs striker in the age group before he was given a debut by Roy Hodgson in March 2016 against Lithuania.

‘I think his first goal for England with Roy because we were with the Under-21s and whenever one of your players get called up, you always want them to do well,’ Southgate added.

‘I remember hearing he had scored and that was a brilliant moment for all of us because you want your boys to progress and do well.

‘His goal at Hampden as well and of course his goals at the World Cup. To win the golden boot is an incredible personal achievement.

‘It is a special moment for him. We have had three or four get to the 50-cap milestone in the last year and for all of them it is a fantastic achievement.’