'Healthy competition pushes England to a higher standard', says Kane

England captain Harry Kane believes the competition for places within the squad has raised their standards.

The squad depth of the Three Lions has been a popular topic of conversation under Thomas Tuchel's reign so far, particularly in the attacking third.

Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden came off the bench against Serbia last time out, while Marcus Rashford is looking to cement his place in the starting line-up in Anthony Gordon's absence.

England have won all seven of their World Cup qualifiers so far, scoring 20 unanswered goals, and face Albania in their final match of their campaign.

Kane revealed that each player knows who their competition is for a starting place in Tuchel's squad, but insisted that it has led to higher standards in the camp.

"There's great competition for places in a lot of positions. People know their positions and who their competition is," said Kane.

"I think it allows people to come into the camp and feel free. There is that healthy competition that pushes each other to a higher standard.

"The boss is really clear when he talks to players, and I think it will be the same all the way up to the tournament.

"There will be some players who don't get to play, but he will make it clear on roles."

Kane has been in brilliant form to start the 2025-26 season, finding the net 13 times in 10 Bundesliga games and scoring five goals in four Champions League outings.

The Bayern Munich forward, who has netted six goals in seven World Cup qualifiers, believes he is in the best form of his career.

"I'd say probably yeah," responded Kane when asked if this is the best form he has ever produced.

"I've had good moments throughout my whole career. Physically and mentally, the way I am involved in the game has all come together nicely.

"Playing for England, I always feel I am playing for one of the best teams and with Bayern we are in a good moment. So far it's been really good."