Harry Kane excited by ‘goalscorer’ Lankshear – but urges patience with Middlesbrough star

England captain Harry Kane has urged people not to put too much pressure on Middlesbrough striker Will Lankshear amid growing discussion over a potential senior call-up.

The 21-year-old has impressed for Middlesbrough this season, following his summer move from Tottenham, 13 goals in 13 league games so far, and Kane says he has excited to see what is to come from the youngster.

“I wouldn’t say I have followed his whole career but obviously this season it has been hard not to hear about him and he has done extremely well at Middlesbrough,” Kane said.

“I spoke to a friend who coached him here at Tottenham at the younger age groups who said he is a goalscorer.

“He has that goalscoring instinct. He’s still early in his development.”

Kane believes Lankshear is currently in the right environment to continue progressing by playing regularly and building confidence.

“I think what he is doing right now is perfect for him, playing loads of games, scoring goals, getting confidence,” he said.

“Whether he comes into the senior England side is down to Thomas Tuchel. It’s not a time to put too much pressure on him.”

Kane also played down suggestions that Lankshear should already be viewed as a potential successor to him for England.

“There’s a lot of talk about who is going to replace me when I’m not here anymore,” he said.

“Just let him do what he is doing and I think it is great for his development. He’s doing really well.

“As the time goes on, I’m sure he will be on the right path to get his chance.

“If he does make it into the senior team it would be great to work with him and try and help him develop as a player.”