Geoff Hurst crowns Harry Kane England’s greatest-ever striker ahead of World Cup semi-final

England legend Sir Geoff Hurst believes Harry Kane has cemented his place as the greatest striker in the country’s history as the Three Lions prepare for a blockbuster World Cup semi-final against Argentina.

The 1966 World Cup hero praised Kane’s remarkable goalscoring record, leadership qualities and influence on the current England squad, insisting the Bayern Munich forward has surpassed every striker to wear the national shirt.

Hurst gives Kane the ultimate endorsement

Few figures carry greater authority in English football than Hurst, who famously scored the only hat-trick in a men’s World Cup final for England.

Ahead of England’s semi-final, he had no hesitation in placing Kane above every previous England striker.

“It’s going to be hard to beat the goals he scored, so I’d say he’s England’s best.”

Hurst also highlighted Kane’s consistency in delivering on the biggest stage.

“His record now is just amazing for his appearances and the goals he’s scoring and doing it in important games like we’ve seen in this tournament.”

Kane has continued rewriting England’s record books during the 2026 World Cup, extending his lead as the country’s all-time top scorer while becoming the national team’s most-capped captain.

Leadership compared to Bobby Moore

While Kane’s goals are well documented, Hurst believes his leadership has become just as important to England’s success.

The former West Ham striker compared Kane’s influence to that of legendary 1966 captain Bobby Moore.

“His leadership is obvious, and that’s important.”

Hurst praised the way Kane leads both publicly and privately.

“He’s talking to the players after a game, when they’re in the huddle and so on. Of course he’s also a great example with his attitude, behaviour and the way he plays.”

He continued:

“He’s a superb example, not just in football but in his life, as a person… I think Harry Kane is absolutely in that same mould.”

Support for Thomas Tuchel

Hurst also expressed confidence in England manager Thomas Tuchel despite the German attempting to become the first foreign coach to lead England to a World Cup triumph.

He believes Tuchel’s attention to detail and management style have created a united squad capable of ending England’s long wait for another world title.

Hurst even welcomed the recent exchange between Tuchel and Jude Bellingham after England’s quarter-final victory over Norway.

“I loved the fact that Tuchel said we were not at our best and that is exciting.”

He added with a smile:

“Bellingham’s response of ‘whatever’ did make me laugh. I love that attitude, it was a fantastic response.”

Eyes on Argentina

England now face defending champions Argentina with a place in the World Cup final at stake.

With Kane enjoying another prolific tournament and carrying the backing of one of England’s greatest footballing icons, the captain has another opportunity to strengthen an already extraordinary legacy by leading the Three Lions one step closer to lifting their first World Cup since 1966.