Any debate about Kane will quickly bring Bobby Moore into the discussion. The composed and graceful defender remains the only England captain to have raised the World Cup, guiding the national side to a 4-2 victory over West Germany at Wembley in July 1966.
Moore was just 25 when England secured the trophy. Before that triumph, he had already won the FA Cup and the European Cup Winners’ Cup with West Ham United. He earned 108 international appearances between May 1962 and November 1973.
Sir Bobby Charlton must also feature in the conversation. After surviving the 1958 Munich air disaster while playing for Manchester United, he went on to become one of the most celebrated English footballers of his generation.
Charlton combined exceptional talent with remarkable dignity. He won the World Cup and, two years later, captained Manchester United to become the first English club to lift the European Cup, scoring twice in a 4-1 final victory over Benfica at Wembley.
With 49 goals from 106 appearances, he still occupies third place among England’s leading scorers.
Sir Geoff Hurst also holds a unique position in England’s history because of his hat-trick in the World Cup final. More recent players, such as Wayne Rooney and David Beckham, have strong claims and many admirers as well.
Former England midfielder Danny Murphy said: “Bobby Moore will always be part of this discussion, as will Sir Bobby Charlton, because of their achievements and the lasting memories they gave supporters.
“For me, growing up, Gazza [Paul Gascoigne] emerged as an inspirational figure, particularly because I was also a creative midfielder.
“Rooney may have been the most complete English footballer of all time and the most gifted player I witnessed, but Kane’s ability, statistics and consistency over so many years are beyond dispute. His achievements firmly establish him as an England legend.”
He continued: “One fact cannot be questioned: Harry Kane is England’s finest goalscorer.
“That distinction can never be taken from him. Producing such outstanding figures across such a long career is extraordinary and deserves immense recognition. Remaining the leading choice for so many years reflects both his quality and his professional standards.
“He is a natural finisher, an outstanding professional and a technically excellent player. The way he has handled himself throughout his long career has brought great credit to both him and his family.
“Whether he is England’s greatest-ever player depends on personal views and comparisons between different generations. However, his record and sustained excellence unquestionably place him among the country’s elite.”
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