England have 'Cristiano Ronaldo problem' as 'lazy' star prepares for Netherlands clash

England have been warned that Harry Kane could hold them back in their bid for Euro 2024, just as Cristiano Ronaldo did with Portugal. Kane is expected to start for the Three Lions against the Netherlands on Wednesday as they chase a place in the final this weekend.

The England captain has scored twice at the Euros but continues to be criticised for his lack of involvement when his team-mates do get forward. Jamie O'Hara believes Kane is causing a similar problem to Ronaldo, who has started every Portugal game despite failing to score from open play.

In an interview with Grosvenor Sport, O'Hara said: “England had more problems with Harry Kane in attack against Switzerland. He was non-existent. It's like having Cristiano Ronaldo in the team, he's just there for his name.”

“Gareth Southgate will never replace him because he thinks he could score, and he has scored a few in this tournament, but he is way off the pace at the moment. You can say what you want about his overall game and what he brings to the team, but he hasn't been good enough.”

“Ivan Toney or Ollie Watkins probably deserve to start or at least get some minutes. England don't need to keep Kane on the pitch anymore. The whole point of that decision was that he could still take penalties, but England now have the best penalty takers.”

“There needs to be a discussion about the fact that he's not playing against Holland. He looks tired, lazy, he's not making runs in the box and he's not giving his all to score goals anymore.”

Many fans and pundits are wondering whether dropping Kane would give England a much-needed refresh in the final third of the pitch, with the Three Lions struggling to score at the Euros. Trent Alexander-Arnold, however, is adamant that Kane must lead the line against the Netherlands.

“Anyone who plays England would like to see Harry Kane not play,” the Liverpool defender said. “We're talking about England's record goalscorer. He's scored two goals in this tournament, helped us win games and, as captain, he leads by example.”

“He puts his all into the games. People will always have their opinions, but he leads us to the semi-finals. He is partly responsible for the good atmosphere in camp and he is partly responsible for us getting to a semi-final.”