Harry Kane to become England’s most-capped men’s player against Croatia

Harry Kane will make England history when he leads the team against Croatia at Wembley on Thursday, winning his 126th cap and moving beyond Peter Shilton’s long-standing appearance record.

The Bayern Munich striker will surpass former goalkeeper Shilton, who held the record since 1990. Kane believes reaching the milestone is a reward for the sustained commitment needed to perform at the highest level throughout his career.

“Definitely up there as the biggest achievement. I think it showcases consistency at the highest level,” Kane said before the Nations League match.

“Testament to all the dedication, the time people don’t see, that keeps me fit and healthy. This is one of the biggest milestones in my career.”

The 33-year-old has also enjoyed a remarkable 12 months. In October, he became the first English player in 25 years to win the Ballon d’Or, football’s most prestigious individual award.

Kane is already England’s record goalscorer, with 91 goals, and Tottenham’s leading scorer with 280. Since moving to Bayern from Tottenham in 2023, he has scored 156 goals and ended his wait for major silverware by helping the club win consecutive Bundesliga titles in 2025 and 2026.

Kane still targeting international silverware

Despite his personal records and success with Bayern, Kane remains focused on winning a major international trophy with England.

The Three Lions have not won a major men’s international title since their 1966 World Cup triumph. Kane was also left disappointed after England’s semi-final defeat by Argentina in July.

He has now set his sights on reaching 100 goals for his country.

“I don’t like to put limits – 100 goals for England is a milestone to reach as soon as possible,” he added. “I’m feeling really good, and hopefully there will be many more years to see what I can achieve.”

England manager Thomas Tuchel confirmed Kane will start against Croatia as captain. He said the match would provide an opportunity to celebrate both the striker’s Ballon d’Or victory and his new appearance record with supporters at Wembley.

“Tomorrow he will start for us as captain. It’s a big occasion to present the Ballon d’Or trophy to our fans and have it embedded in the same day he gets his all-time record for 126 matches. It’s a beautiful occasion,” Tuchel said.

England defeated Croatia 7-0 in Rijeka last month, a result that virtually secured their place in the Nations League quarter-finals. However, Tuchel expects a more competitive game in front of the home crowd and wants England to maintain their standards before Sunday’s final group match against World Cup winners Spain.

Defenders Ezri Konsa and Djed Spence will miss the Croatia match, although Tuchel expects both players to be fit for the trip to Madrid.