Harry Kane set to join England’s appearance record as Jude Bellingham partnership flourishes

Harry Kane will win his 125th England cap against the Czech Republic at Wembley on Tuesday, drawing level with Peter Shilton’s national appearance record as his increasingly influential partnership with Jude Bellingham takes centre stage.

The England captain made his international debut against Lithuania in 2015, scoring within two minutes of coming on as a substitute. Since then, Kane has established himself as his country’s leading goalscorer, with 89 goals after scoring twice in Saturday’s 7-0 victory over Croatia.

The 33-year-old has remained a constant through England’s successes and disappointments over the past 11 years. He made his debut under Roy Hodgson and has also played for England under Sam Allardyce, Gareth Southgate, Lee Carsley and current manager Thomas Tuchel.

Yet Kane’s goals and consistency have not ended England’s wait for a first major men’s trophy since the 1966 World Cup. They were beaten in the European Championship finals in 2021 and 2024.

Tuchel believes Kane may need the support of Bellingham if he is to emulate Bobby Moore as the only England captain to lift a major trophy.

Bellingham, who was left out of the squad in October 2025 and appeared to be at risk of missing the World Cup in June and July, has rebuilt his standing with Tuchel over the past year. The Real Madrid midfielder had frustrated the manager with his volatile conduct on the pitch, but returned to the team in time for the tournament.

Although England were eventually knocked out by Argentina in the semi-finals, Bellingham finished as their leading scorer, ahead of Kane.

Tuchel’s defensive approach late in that defeat was heavily criticised. He has since sought to ensure England remain aggressive, with Kane and Bellingham expected to lead their attacking threat.

Bellingham was outstanding in the win over Croatia in Rijeka, scoring once and creating three goals. Former Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane said the 23-year-old could become “one of the greatest players of all time”.

“At this moment in time, he is an amazing footballer. The package, his running power, his delivery, his goal threat,” Keane said.

Alex Scott, who made his first England start alongside Bellingham and Elliot Anderson in midfield, was equally impressed.

“Honestly, I’ve never seen anything like it,” said the Bournemouth player.

“He’s even better in person, seeing it up close and being on the same pitch as him, he’s the best midfielder in the world. On the pitch his ability is scary and that’s the benchmark we need to live up to.”

Bukayo Saka added: “He was special, (I’m) happy to play with him and happy to have him in the England team.”

Tuchel said Kane and Bellingham’s understanding had developed both on and off the pitch, contributing to their recent combination of creativity and goals.

Bellingham took over as captain when Kane was substituted late in the Croatia match.

“They get better and better. They love playing with each other. They understand each other better,” Tuchel said.

“We adjusted our positioning a little bit after the World Cup. Jude almost plays a little bit more offensive for us. That’s where I see him in the most dangerous position.”