Nations League: Harry Kane set to break England appearance record against Croatia

The Bayern Munich striker will move ahead of former goalkeeper Peter Shilton, whose record had stood since 1990. Kane believes the achievement reflects the dedication and hard work required to remain at the highest level throughout his career.

"Definitely up there as the biggest achievement. I think it showcases consistency at the highest level," Kane said ahead of the Nations League clash.

"Testament to all the dedication, the time people don't see, that keeps me fit and healthy. This is one of the biggest milestones in my career."

The 33-year-old has enjoyed an outstanding 12 months, winning the Ballon d'Or in October after becoming the first English player in 25 years to claim football's most prestigious individual award. He is already England's leading goalscorer with 91 strikes and holds Tottenham's scoring record with 280 goals.

Since joining Bayern from Tottenham in 2023, Kane has scored 156 goals and finally ended his wait for major silverware by winning consecutive Bundesliga titles in 2025 and 2026.

However, individual records and club success have not ended his desire to win a major international trophy with England. The Three Lions have not lifted a major men's international title since their 1966 World Cup triumph, while Kane was left disappointed after their semi-final defeat to Argentina in July.

Kane is determined to continue adding to his achievements and has set his sights on reaching 100 international goals. "I don't like to put limits - 100 goals for England is a milestone to reach as soon as possible," he added. "I'm feeling really good, and hopefully there will be many more years to see what I can achieve."

England manager Thomas Tuchel praised Kane's achievements and confirmed he would start against Croatia. Tuchel also described the occasion as special, with England supporters set to celebrate the striker's Ballon d'Or success alongside his appearance record.

"Tomorrow he will start for us as captain. It's a big occasion to present the Ballon d'Or trophy to our fans and have it embedded in the same day he gets his all-time record for 126 matches. It's a beautiful occasion," Tuchel said.

England thrashed Croatia 7-0 in Rijeka last month, but Tuchel expects a much tougher contest at Wembley. The result virtually secured England's progress to the Nations League quarter-finals, although the German wants his players to maintain their standards ahead of Sunday's final group match against World Cup winners Spain. Defenders Ezri Konsa and Djed Spence have been ruled out against Croatia, but Tuchel expects both to be available for the trip to Madrid.