Tottenham’s caretaker boss Ryan Mason believes Harry Kane is not appreciated enough by people in England – and praised his loyalty ahead of a big summer for the striker.
Kane will have just a year remaining on his current contract at the end of the season, meaning he could walk away for free at the end of the 2023/24 campaign should he choose not sign a new deal with the club.
The England forward played a key role as Spurs came from behind to draw 2-2 with Man Utd on Thursday, setting up Heung-Min Son for his side’s equaliser.
United have been linked with a summer move for Kane – with The Telegraph claiming that they have taken initial steps to try and sign him.
And Mason believes his talent is often underappreciated by people in England – and praised the loyalty he has shown in his career so far after being asked about Kane’s lack of trophies.
“That’s people’s opinion but I certainly value loyalty and when I see a player showing loyalty, not only on the football pitch but off it as well,” Mason said.
“He’s a family man, he’s humble, he’s hard working and if I’m speaking to any kid in this academy and around the world he’s a role model to so many people. Not just children but adults as well and we’re lucky to have him here.
“He was outstanding (against Man Utd),” he continued.
“This country probably doesn’t appreciate how good he is as a footballer. He’s incredible. I was fortunate enough to come through the academy, we played together and to be on the other side now and watching as a coach, it’s a pleasure.
“I’ve thought that many times in the last couple of seasons. To watch him live, this country should appreciate we’ve got a real special talent.”
Spurs climbed back up to fifth with their point against United, and Mason says he is hoping to use the positivity of his side’s second-half performance to end a difficult season well.
“In football, negativity can spread very quickly but so can positivity,” he said.
“If you create a good feeling and energy, it can accelerate a process. Hopefully we’ll continue with what we saw in the second half but also the first half as well because I know Man United scored two goals, had some openings and were probably the better side in the first half, but we were together, we had belief in what we were doing and it’s important we continue in this way.”
