Paul Scholes has raised doubts about Harry Kane’s long-term role with England, describing his performance in recent matches as a sign that the Three Lions captain may be approaching the twilight of his international career.
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Speaking on The Overlap’s Stick To Football, Scholes reflected on Kane’s display during England’s UEFA Nations League victories over Greece and the Republic of Ireland.
The Bayern Munich striker came off the bench in the 3-0 win against Greece before returning to the starting XI for the 5-0 triumph at Wembley.
Despite his goal against Ireland, Scholes remarked that Kane “looked out of place,” calling it “the beginning of the end” for the 31-year-old at the national level.
While Kane continues to thrive at club level, scoring 17 goals in 16 games for Bayern this season, Scholes noted that age could be catching up with him.
“When you get old, everything feels quicker around you,” he commented, comparing Kane’s situation to past England legends like Alan Shearer and Wayne Rooney, who also saw their roles diminish as their careers progressed.
Gary Neville added that the natural evolution of a player’s role often leads to reduced appearances rather than an abrupt end, stating, “At the end, it’s similar to the beginning—you don’t play every game, but one in two or three.”
Despite the criticism, Kane’s ability to contribute was highlighted in his involvement in Jude Bellingham’s second-half penalty against Ireland. Scholes even praised Kane’s pass leading to the penalty as potentially “one of the best passes ever” if executed intentionally.
As England continues to evolve under Gareth Southgate, the question remains whether Kane will adapt his role or phase out as part of the squad’s natural progression.