Harry Kane becomes England’s all-time top goalscorer with Italy penalty

England captain Harry Kane made history on Thursday evening as his first half penalty put him out on his own as his nation’s all-time record goalscorer.

The Tottenham Hotspur striker slotted home a spot kick shortly before the break to put him clear of Wayne Rooney at the top of the scoring charts. Kane now has 54 international goals in just 81 appearances.

In addition to this impressive milestone, the rate of Kane’s goal-scoring also sets him apart from the rest in historic terms. Rooney, who held the record before him, scored his 53 across 120 games.

Kane bounces back after World Cup heartbreak

The Spurs striker has been in red-hot form his season but his last outing for the national side ended in tears for the 29-year-old. He missed a crucial penalty in England’s 2-1 World Cup quarter-final elimination at the hands of France last December.

Kane, who scored another penalty earlier in that game, was inconsolable at the final whistle but he has continued to produce the good for his club in the months since.

England manager Gareth Southgate hailed Kane’s attitude in the pre-match press conference on Wednesday, adding that the striker would be motivated to make amends for his country.

“We’ve seen with his performances and goal-scoring with his club he’s put it behind him,” Southgate said.

“I know he’s going to have added motivation tomorrow night to come back and show everybody what he’s about in an England shirt. For us that’s a good position.”