World Cup

Kieran Trippier talks up Harry Kane leadership qualities

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 23 May 2018

Harry Kane is "a real leader" and is perfectly suited to the role of England captain, according to Tottenham Hotspur teammate Kieran Trippier.

Kieran Trippier has described Harry Kane as "a real leader" after his Tottenham Hotspur teammate was confirmed as England's skipper for the World Cup.

Kane was given the nod over the likes of Eric Dier, Jordan Henderson and Gary Cahill, making him the youngest permanent Three Lions player to wear the armband in the quadrennial competition.

Despite concerns that the captaincy may weigh heavily on striker's shoulders in Russia next month, Trippier has insisted that his clubmate is perfectly suited to the role.

"I didn't know anything about it. 'H' is a top professional, on and off the field. He helps all the youngsters out at Tottenham, and us," Trippier told reporters. "He's a real leader, all the boys know that and I couldn't be happier for him.

"He's got that fire inside him like everybody. He's not the one to talk bad about people off the field. He's just a top lad, top professional and I couldn't be any happier and I think the lads are as well.

"He speaks, he's not afraid to say anything. On the pitch he helps people which is most important. We've got leaders all the way around the dressing room, everyone's a leader. Everyone will help each other out – that's the most important thing.

"H sets high standards, which all the other players do as well. We can all help each other along the way and that's all you need."

Trippier has been capped five times for England at senior level, starting both of the recent friendlies against the Netherlands and Italy.