Bellingham hails Kane 'greatest ever' after England rewrite history

Jude Bellingham called Harry Kane the "greatest ever" after the England captain rewrote the record books by becoming the country’s leading World Cup scorer in a 2-0 win over Panama that secured top spot in Group L. Kane’s landmark arrived in the 67th minute at the New York/New Jersey Stadium when he rose highest to head in a clipped cross from Bellingham, his 11th goal in the competition and one clear of Gary Lineker’s long-standing record of 10.

Before turning provider, Bellingham was the man who finally unlocked a stubborn Panama defence, doing so from a Bukayo Saka corner and celebrating on social media: "First objective achieved! Round of 32, here we come! @harrykane Our greatest ever… Congrats brother!." Kane replied: "Thanks for joining in the celebration @judebellingham." Manager Thomas Tuchel made five changes from the side held by Ghana, with Jarell Quansah replacing the injured Reece James at right-back and Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka returning to the wings.

England, New York/New Jersey

harry kane, jude bellingham, world cup, england, panama, goal record, gary lineker, bukayo saka, thomas tuchel, group l