
Former Liverpool and Aston Villa striker Emile Heskey has revealed who he thinks is the greatest player in England’s history.
Being one of the powerhouses in the football world, England have produced some world-class players over the years, including the likes of Bobby Charlton, Steven Gerrard, Wayne Rooney, Alan Shearer, Ashley Cole and Paul Gascoigne.
In recent years, players such as Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice have impressed while wearing the Three Lions shirt.
Recently, current England captain Kane was announced as the 2026 Ballon d’Or winner, beating Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal to the illustrious award. He also became the first player since Michael Owen to take home the prize.
With the Ballon d’Or now on his CV, many fans have been wondering whether Kane is now England’s best player ever, having scored the most goals and made the most appearances for his country.
Speaking recently to Spanish news outlet AS, ex-England striker Heskey was asked whether Kane is the country’s greatest.
In response, the 48-year-old, who played 62 times for England, stated that it is ‘impossible not to think of him’ in such conversations.
Heskey said: “He is England’s undisputed leader. He demonstrates this in every match through his commitment, experience, quality, and maturity. Furthermore, the Ballon d’Or has validated that status and given him even greater authority.
“We’ve had some truly great figures, but for me, he is (The greatest). Whenever such debates arise, it’s impossible not to think of him.”
“His performance speaks for itself, and there’s something that makes him special. Kane just keeps getting better with age.
“At 33, he’s at the peak of his relevance. While many other players begin their decline at that age, he continues to ascend—he keeps improving, scoring more goals, and becoming increasingly vital for both England and Bayern.
“He made a massive impact at a very young age, but he has continued to evolve; leaving his home country has served him well, helping him grow further and win titles.
“He also possesses the gift of longevity. We can look forward to seeing Kane perform at a high level for quite some time yet.”
Prior to England’s 2-1 win over Croatia earlier in the week, Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel was asked whether he thinks Kane has now cemented himself as the country’s GOAT.
In response, the German claimed that Kane ‘is up there for sure’, having proven himself at the highest level.
Tuchel said: “I don't know but he is up there of course. It's now proven and it's always nice if things are proven. He has his collection of prizes, he will score more goals, he will get more games and tomorrow he will start as captain of course.
“It's a big occasion to present the Ballon d'Or to our fans and bring it to the country and have it on the same day when he gets his all-time record for 126 matches. It's a beautiful, beautiful occasion.”
England will continue their Nations League campaign on Sunday night against Spain in Madrid.
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