England firm favourites to beat Scotland as Harry Kane named captain

It was announced on Friday by England manager Gareth Southgate that Tottenham striker Harry Kane will captain England against Scotland in Saturday's World Cup qualifier at Hampden Park.

Kane will be making his first appearance for his country since 4 September 2016 because of injury.

England's last permanent captain was Wayne Rooney, who has been left out of the squad.

"I wanted to give him that boost," said England boss Gareth Southgate. "He was pretty chuffed. It's a great honour."

Kane will be making his 18th appearance for the Three Lions, having made his debut for the senior side against Lithuania under Roy Hodgson on 27 March 2015.

He came off the bench to score in the 4-0 Euro 2016 qualifying win at Wembley after replacing Rooney.

"We have several players who have excellent leadership qualities," added Southgate.

"Harry is a player who we have worked with in the Under-21s before. He's got a terrific mentality and I know he is delighted to be leading the team."

England team-mate Adam Lallana said Kane deserved to lead his country.

"I'm absolutely delighted for Harry, I've been so impressed by him. He's demonstrated why he's one of the world's best players," added the Liverpool midfielder.

Southgate himself is no stranger to the role having captained his country and every other club side he played for at some point.

Group F leaders England are six points clear of fourth-placed Scotland with five games remaining.

Scotland v England - last six meetings
Nov 2016: England 3-0 Scotland (WCQ) Nov 1999: England 0-1 Scotland (ECQ)
Nov 2014: Scotland 1-3 England (F) Nov 1999: Scotland 0-2 England (ECQ)
Aug 2013: England 3-2 Scotland (F) Jun 1996: England 2-0 Scotland (EC)

 JB