Harry Kane is relishing the chance to improve his situation ahead of an England call-up against Panama on Saturday.
Harry Kane insists he will not be bothered by World Cup failure against Ghana
Harry Kane will be hoping to repeat the worst hat-trick of his career – especially if it cements England’s place at the top of Group L.
Thomas Tuchel’s captain won a World Cup treble eight years ago, defeating Saturday’s opponents Panama 6-1 in a demolition job in Russia.
Although this milestone approach wasn’t really his style, he was hoping lightning would strike twice after his blank shot against Ghana, saying: “A few pens and a lucky goal. Yeah, to be honest it wasn’t the prettiest hat-trick for me. I’ll do it again on Saturday, for sure.”
A win against the Black Stars in Boston on Tuesday would have secured them first place had there been a game in hand. England cannot afford to rest their big guns now, as they do not want to fail in a potentially lucrative Round of 32 match against Cape Verde in Atlanta.
Based on current predictions, a second place finish would see them face Portugal in the knockout stages and then Spain in the last 16.
Kane still envisions Tuchel making a notable change this weekend after a tough performance in Massachusetts.
He added: “I think the manager will be clear about his decision. I wouldn’t be surprised if he makes some changes in any case to keep the team fresh. He knows, of course, like all of us, that there will be extra time, so there is still a long way to go and we are in a good position.”
Harry Kane takes home the match ball as England beat Panama 6-1 at the 2018 World Cup (Image: MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP/Getty Images)
“Panama, we’re expecting probably a little bit different game, so whoever comes into that game will be ready, energetic from the get-go and probably not going to face as many low blocks.
“There’s definitely going to be a period where we have to break it out, but that’s what this team is about.
“We have six games left so we hope there will be a lot of football, but the players will be ready for whoever steps on the pitch.”
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