Harry Kane absolved of blame for Euro 2024 struggles as Graeme Souness points the finger at another area of England's team

Despite being joint-top scorer at Euro 2024 with three goals, Bayern Munich star Kane came in for criticism for his England displays at the tournament. The striker was taken off around the hour mark in the 2-1 final loss to Spain after a quiet performance, with many questioning whether the 30-year-old should be in the Three Lions' starting XI going forward. However, Souness has come to the aid of the ex-Tottenham man and turned his ire towards England's midfield - which comprised Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham and Kobbie Mainoo.

He said onThree Up Front: “If a conversation had taken place between Gareth Southgate and Harry Kane where he dropped Kane because he felt he was underperforming, then I think Harry would’ve agreed with him. However, Kane was not the same player that he’s been for a number of years where he has been the go-to man.

“If I were him I’d be pointing to the fact that he doesn’t get enough service. No one passes to him, he comes short for the ball and doesn’t receive it. The England midfield is non-existent and they were non-existent in the final against Spain. He’s struggled because of that just as much as he’s struggled because of any lack of form or fitness.

"He was getting no service whatsoever. He was getting bullied off the ball because it wasn’t being given to him quick enough. I have sympathy for him."

For the second Euros running, England fell at the final hurdle. After losing to Italy on penalties at Wembley in 2021, they were undone by Spain in Germany at the weekend. With Gareth Southgate resigning as manager, a new Three Lions era is about to begin as they search for their first international trophy since the 1966 World Cup.

Kane, who had a back injury towards the end of last season, has just begun his summer break and will return for Bayern's pre-season campaign in the coming weeks. He could feature for England again against the Republic of Ireland in the Nations League on September 7.