A row had broken out between Gary Lineker and Harry Kane over criticism of England’s performances at Euro 2024, though the Match of the Day host has now attempted to bring it to a humourous end
Gary Lineker has ensured he has the last laugh in his row with Harry Kane after making a joke about England live on the BBC.
Lineker was hosting the corporation’s coverage of Italy’s draw with Croatia on Monday evening. His appearance came the day after Kane launched a furious blast at the England legend for his criticism of the Three Lions’ performance against Denmark.
While Lineker defended his analysis, he also insisted Kane had the right to speak out. And he has now taken the chance to make light of the situation the night before England’s final game of the group stage.
Gareth Southgate’s side have qualified for the knockout stages after Spain defeated Albania on Monday night. As he shared that news with viewers of Italy versus Croatia, Lineker cracked a joke at his and Kane’s expense.
Lineker said: “If Albania fail to win tonight, England are officially through to the last 16. Because even if they lose tomorrow they will go through as one of the best third-placed teams. I wish people would stop being so critical of them.”
The row between Lineker and Kane erupted after the Match of the Day host branded England’s performance against Denmark as “s***”. The former Barcelona star was brutal in his assessment of Southgate’s men.
Lineker told the Rest is Football podcast: “I think we have to reflect the mood of the nation. I can’t imagine anyone who is English would have enjoyed that performance because it was lethargic, it was dour. You can think of all sorts of words and expletives if you like, but it was s***. ”
Kane was left furious by the level of criticism aimed at him and his England team-mates. And he demanded Lineker and his fellow pundits tone their comments down as the Three Lions seek to win their first major trophy since 1966.
HAVE YOUR SAY! What should be England’s line-up against Slovenia? Comment below.
“What ex-players have to realise is that it is very hard not to listen to it now, especially for some players who are not used to it or who are new to the environment. I always feel like they have a responsibility,” he said when asked about Lineker’s comments.
“I know they have got to be honest and give their opinion but they also have a responsibility as an ex-England player that a lot of players looked up to. People do care about what they say and people do listen to them.
“Everyone has got their opinion but the bottom line is we have not won anything as a nation for a long, long time and a lot of these players were part of that as well, so they know how tough it is.
“It is not digging anyone out. It is just the reality that they know that it is tough to play in these major tournaments and tough to play for England. We all want to win a major tournament. Being as helpful as they can and building the lads up with confidence would be a much better way of going about it.”
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.