Harry Kane hopes England World Cup run can inspire a generation

England captain "proud" to be leading the team out for Wednesday's semi-final

Image: Harry Kane is the tournament's top scorer with six goals

Harry Kane says England are determined to “finish the job” in Russia and hopes their unexpected tilt at World Cup glory will inspire the next generation.

The Tottenham striker will become the first man to captain the Three Lions in a semi-final since Terry Butcher in 1990 when he takes the armband against Croatia on Wednesday - and the significance of the moment is not lost on him.

Kane was not even born when Sir Bobby Robson's side lost in agonising fashion to West Germany, a penalty shootout in Turin, but knows his place in a lineage that goes back to the country's only tournament victory on home soil 52 years ago.

Image: Kane poses for pictures with fans after England's win over Sweden

He has met the hero of the 1966 final, Sir Geoff Hurst, and knows he could be just a week away from emulating an achievement many feared would never be repeated.

"It's amazing to meet any heroes from '66 and it gives you so much inspiration, obviously it's been a long time since England have done well in a major tournament," he said.

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Dele Alli believes this England squad is bringing the country together as they chase World Cup glory in Russia.

"As a player and as a professional I know that I have a job, on and off the pitch, to inspire people and inspire kids watching this tournament. It's amazing because I was one of those kids growing up who wanted to play for England. So to be here now, leading this team out, I'm so proud.

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"No-one wants to go home. Everyone wants to finish the job and we are excited to try and do that. We want to be here till the end. We are one step closer to what is the biggest game in football as a professional."

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