Harry Kane revels in ‘magical moment’ of becoming England’s all-time leading goal scorer

Harry Kane has thanked Wayne Rooney for his tribute after becoming England’s all-time leading goal scorer in the Three Lions victory over Italy.

The England captain scored a penalty in the 44th minute of the Three Lions 2-1 win over Italy on Thursday in Naples.

Kane’s effort saw him move one clear of Rooney by reaching 54 goals for England, with the former Manchester United star then leading the tributes.

‘Congratulations to on becoming England’s all-time leading goalscorer,’ Rooney tweeted. ‘I knew it wouldn’t take long but that was quick.’

‘Great man, unbelievable goalscorer and an England legend. Congrats Harry.’

Harry Kane scored his record breaking 54th goal for England with a penalty against Italy

The England captain said breaking Wayne Rooney’s record was a magical moment for him

Rooney led the tributes on social media by labelling Kane as an ‘England legend’

Kane was quick to repay the compliment after being told of Rooney’s words post-match. 

‘Big thanks,’ Kane told Channel 4.

‘I was on the pitch when Wayne broke the record. I know what it meant to him and I was so proud of him.

‘I remember when I gave him the boot for breaking the record, he said he would be giving it back to me one day. A special man.’

Kane’s record breaking goal proved decisive in England’s 2-1 win over Italy in their first Euro 2024 qualification match.

The match was England’s first since their World Cup quarter-final loss to France in Qatar, where Kane missed a crucial penalty.

The Tottenham striker said it was a special moment to have become England’s leading goalscorer. 

‘Yeah it means everything,’ Kane said. ‘We were so excited to put the England shirt back on and get back out here and get the campaign started for the Euros next year.

Kane’s record breaking goal came from the penalty spot in the first half against Italy in Naples

‘It had to be a penalty of course and once it hit the back of the net it was just so much emotion.

‘Just thanks to all the players, the staff, the fans, my wife, my family back home and everyone who has helped me get to this stage. 

‘It is just a magical moment.

‘Thankfully I put it away and just a great night. We haven’t won in Italy for so long. To score and win the game is special.’