Beckham-equalling Kane hopes to emulate Messi, Ronaldo and Modric

Syndicated reporting provided by Stats Perform and reviewed by the SoccerNews editorial team.

Harry Kane is thrilled to be equalling David Beckham’s tally of England caps as he looks to the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi for extra inspiration.

Kane is set to make his 115th appearance for England when the Three Lions take on Croatia in their World Cup opener.

That will see the Bayern Munich star move joint-third, alongside Beckham, in the all-time England record books. Only Wayne Rooney (120) and Peter Shilton (125) have played more games for the Three Lions.

“To reach the same number of caps [as Beckham] is a great thing for me,” Kane said, as reported by BBC Sport.

“Beckham was a big idol of mine growing up and obviously hoping and dreaming one day that I would be in the same England shirt as him, that will be a great milestone to hit for sure.”

Taking in the surroundings pic.twitter.com/clkGaxdbSM

— England (@England) June 17, 2026

Argentina great Messi marked becoming the first player to feature at six different World Cups in sensational style as he scored a hat-trick in a 3-0 win over Algeria.

Cristiano Ronaldo is set to match Messi on Wednesday, when Portugal open their account, while Kane is featuring at his sixth major tournament for England.

Kane plundered 61 goals in all competitions for Bayern this term, and England’s record scorer sees Messi, Ronaldo and Luka Modric, who will likely be at the heart of Croatia’s midfield in Dallas, as prime examples to follow when it comes to longevity.

“Some of the players like [Cristiano] Ronaldo, [Lionel] Messi and Modric, being able to do it for 20-plus years is what truly separates the good players from the great players,” added Kane, who turns 33 next month.

“I’m extremely proud of being here again and being in my sixth tournament and I think being in the shape that I am in.

“During my career, I don’t think I will ever think anything different. Maybe in 10 years or so I will look back at everything I have been able to do.”

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