Kane hits back at "unfair" England criticism

Harry Kane insisted that pride is not lacking in the England dressing room after two goals from him helped his side to a flattering 4-0 win in Malta.

Many fans were disappointed with the display and the players received criticism, both from the travelling contingent and on social media after the game.

However, though Gareth Southgate's team may have seemed uninspired on the night, Kane hit back at any suggestion that the shirt does not mean enough to the England players, who are still top of World Cup qualifying group F, 2 points clear of Monday's opponents Slovakia.

'"I think that's a thoroughly unfair statement," he said. "Every player here is very proud to represent their country.

"There's a lot of hard work and effort to get where we are. It didn't happen overnight, it started at a young age and took a lot of hard work and dedication.

"Anyone who says that doesn't understand what it takes - that's probably why they're sitting at home watching it and we're out there playing."

Kane was unsurprised by Malta's defiant performance but did sympathise with England's travelling contingent, who were expecting a much more convincing performance at the Ta'Qali National Stadium.

"You can understand their frustration. We're frustrated on the pitch," he said.

"But sometimes people underestimate the teams we play. Especially at home they can make it difficult, particularly in the first half when they're energetic. It's a big scalp to try to get a result against England.

"We stayed patient and we knew at half-time if we kept moving the ball, because it was hot out there, they'd tire. When we got those chances to be clinical, that's what we did."