Harry Kane has hailed the return of Jordan Henderson to the England squad, confessing that the team lacked leadership during Euro 2024. The Tottenham striker expressed his belief that Henderson’s presence was sorely missed in Germany last summer, despite England’s journey to the final.
Kane remarked, during England press duties on Thursday: “I would say we were a little bit light on leadership in the summer.”
He elaborated on the importance of seasoned players like himself and Henderson, especially when facing adversity or distractions within the camp: “When things are not going so well, or there’s a lot of noise around the camp, that’s when you need players like me and someone like Jordan – you need your experienced players to take that responsibility on.”
The England captain praised Henderson’s influence, saying: “When you talk about Hendo, he brings that experience as good as anyone I’ve played with. I’ve spoken in other tournaments about how valuable he is to the team, not just when he is on the pitch but off the pitch as well.”
Kane also stressed the significance of a supportive environment for success in major tournaments: “Whenever you go to major tournaments, I don’t think it’s just about having the best players in the best moments. It’s about creating an environment where you allow other people to thrive, people knowing their roles within the squad.”
He concluded by highlighting the role of leadership in creating a positive team atmosphere: “When you go into these camps where you’re away for eight weeks, you need that environment where you have leaders in the team, and Thomas (Tuchel) has been clear on his idea of trying to build that environment. And it starts from this camp.”
Ahead of his first team selection, Tuchel sought the opinions of senior players about their experiences at the Euros.
This is why Kane was not taken aback by the recall of 34 year old Henderson, who is currently playing for Ajax.
“I don’t think it is a surprise,” Kane stated. “Jordan is still performing at a high level. They are leading their league in Holland and what is he? 34? 35?”.
“When you reach your 30s you’re perceived as old, but I believe he has much to contribute both off and on the pitch. Seeing him in training this week has demonstrated that he still has a lot to offer on the field.
“From my perspective, it’s fantastic to have him. I feel like we complement each other very well – as captain and as another leader – in our leadership styles. And I believe that benefits the team from an overall balance standpoint.”
It’s evident that Tuchel wants as many leaders as possible and is seeking even more camaraderie.
Kane revealed: “Thomas discussed the interactions. It was some research they had conducted on interactions within the team, in terms of communicating with each other and assisting each other. It was the difference between the first half in the final and the second half in the final. There was significantly less in that second half.
“I think Thomas is trying to identify minor details because we are close to being European champions and world champions and he’s attempting to find that slight edge that propels us over the line.”
