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Harry Kane has hit back at his critics after the England captain’s superb performance earned him a 2-0 win over Finland in his 100th international match

Harry Kane has hit back at his critics after the England captain’s superb performance earned him a 2-0 win over Finland in his 100th international match

Harry Kane hit out at his doubters as he celebrated his 100th international match with two decisive goals against Finland on Tuesday evening.

The England captain, who was presented with a gold cap before the match, scored twice to boost interim head coach Lee Carsley’s hopes of a permanent job after a routine victory at Wembley.

Kane, who was on the pitch with two of his daughters and his wife Kate, was among the players who faced criticism over their performances at Euro 2024.

And on a special night Kane said: ‘It was a big night for me, really proud. I want to score goals and help the team.

“When you are questioned, you become hungrier to prove people wrong. I always back myself to score goals and I am looking forward to the future.

Harry Kane has hit back at his critics after the England captain’s superb performance earned him a 2-0 win over Finland in his 100th international match

Harry Kane fired a powerful attack on his doubters as he celebrated his 100th international match with two decisive goals against England

Kane, his wife Kate and children were presented with a gold England cap before the match on Tuesday

Kane, his wife Kate and children were presented with a gold England cap before the match on Tuesday

Kane walked out with his kids who wore shirts with 'Daddy 100' on the back to honor the special occasion

Kane walked out with his kids who wore shirts with ‘Daddy 100’ on the back to honor the special occasion

‘Nowadays, as a footballer, you get criticised, people talk about you as a player. I’ve always said that when things don’t go your way, you have to use that to motivate you and create a hunger in you.

“Not only to other people, but also to prove to yourself that you can keep up the level. There will come a time, I don’t know when, when the level will drop and you won’t feel the same anymore. But as long as I keep feeling like this, I want to keep pushing the boundaries. In October I’ll be ready again.

‘I don’t think I even thought about 100 caps when I was on loan at Millwall, Leicester Norwich. I’ve learned a lot over the years. Hopefully I can get 101 and 102 in October and score a few goals as well.’

Of the evening’s festivities, the Bayern Munich star added: ‘It was really special. My son (Henry) wasn’t really in the mood for it before the game.

‘He was having a bit of a meltdown, it was past his bedtime! He didn’t feel like going out in the rain. Luckily my wife was there to keep an eye on him.

“It was a great opportunity. They’re still a bit young to really understand what’s happening. But it’s special memories when they’re older and we can see them on the pitch.

‘Nothing I do would be possible without them. I’ve had some special nights in an England shirt and it’s been absolutely fantastic.’

Carsley has won both games after Saturday’s victory over Ireland, but the 50-year-old said: “I’m definitely still not comfortable, I’ve been out of my comfort zone. I just want the players to do well – it challenges you. I want to create opportunities to be effective.

Kane put England ahead with a stunning strike, before adding a second goal a few minutes later

Kane put England ahead with a stunning strike, before adding a second goal a few minutes later

The England captain revealed he is eager to continue proving his doubters 'wrong'

The England captain revealed he is eager to continue proving his doubters ‘wrong’

Interim Three Lions manager Lee Carsley continues to impress as he bids to become the next permanent head coach

Interim Three Lions manager Lee Carsley continues to impress as he bids to become the next permanent head coach

“Nice, but we have to make sure we deliver high standards every day. Fortunately, we achieved two good results and we will build on that.”

Of Kane he added: ‘Harry scored his goals very well, he deserves all the credit.

‘What I’ve noticed this week is that he’s very motivated to play for England and score goals. I hope he has a striker like that.’

Carsley says that Ben White will have to make the first move if he is to emerge from his exile in England.