Harry Kane Names His All-Time England XI with Frank Lampard in It!

On June 5, 2025, England captain Harry Kane named his ideal England XI, surprisingly omitting Paul Scholes. Kane included Jordan Pickford, Kyle Walker, John Terry, Harry Maguire, Ashley Cole, David Beckham, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, Raheem Sterling, Wayne Rooney, and Michael Owen, praising their impact, leadership, and memorable contributions to the national team.

As the England captain and record goalscorer, Harry Kane revealed his ideal England XI in May 2024, leaving out some legendary names in the process. Speaking to England Football, Kane started with goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, praising their friendship and recalling the dramatic penalty shootout win over Colombia at the 2018 World Cup. He picked Kyle Walker at right-back, calling him one of England’s most consistent defenders ever.

In central defence, Kane controversially omitted the likes of Rio Ferdinand and Sol Campbell, opting instead for Harry Maguire and John Terry, citing Terry’s passion and bravery. Ashley Cole was named left-back, while the midfield included David Beckham, Kane’s childhood idol, alongside Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard. Paul Scholes was notably absent from the starting eleven, though Kane acknowledged him among England greats. Raheem Sterling was selected on the left wing, and the attacking duo featured Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen.

Kane described Rooney as a major influence during his early international career, praising his leadership and goal-scoring record. Owen, he said, inspired him during his childhood, especially his famous 1998 World Cup goal against Argentina. Kane’s choices reflect a mix of personal admiration and on-field achievements, though his omissions sparked debate among fans and pundits.