(Getty Images)
Reuters
Harry Kane refused to compare himself to striker Erling Haaland on Friday as the England captain prepares for a World Cup quarter-final clash with Norway that could go some way to deciding who wins the tournament’s Golden Boot.
Kane is one goal behind the Norwegian striker in the race, while Haaland is seven. Both are chasing leaders Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe, who have scored eight goals each.
When asked who the best striker is, Kane, who won the World Cup Golden Boot in 2018, diplomatically dodged the question.
“It’s impossible for me to answer. First of all, I think we’re almost completely different players. I know we’re both senior strikers, but we play almost two different positions,” Kane told reporters on Friday.
“I see myself as a different player, although I score the same goals. I might like to touch the ball more, but I can also play like a fierce number nine.”
However, the 32-year-old footballer praised his opponent.
“Erling was incredible. Physically he is a machine, he is a beast. His performance is at the highest level and obviously his performance speaks for itself,” Kane added.
“I have a lot of respect for him as a player, as a fellow professional. Of course I hope he has a quiet day tomorrow, but I think his overall results over the last few years speak for themselves. He’s a fantastic player.”
Despite his individual achievements, Kane insists team success remains his priority.
“My main goal is to win the World Cup with England, not the Golden Boot,” he said.
“But I also know that I am a goalscorer. I’m number nine. So if I score goals, it will obviously help the team.”