Harry Kane walking amongst giants - and passing them.

Before England training at Hotspur Way yesterday, Harry Kane chatted in reception to Tottenham Hotspur staff. He stood there, leaning against the desk, catching up with the receptionist, ground-staff, and old friends from Spurs football department. Kane remains a popular person here, not simply because of his past feats with the team but because he has no airs or graces.

Anybody who has any familiarity with Kane will have stories of his civility. I once went round a local school with him during his time at Spurs. Kane was there to inspire a group of kids who were struggling with their education. We were being led through the corridors by a teacher and Kane made sure he held doors open for the person behind. It may seem a tiny gesture but it reflected common courtesy embedded in Kane. Wholesomeness does not fill many headlines but it should, and Kane has that quality.

England’s captain is a role model. He rarely says anything contentious, is not a fist-clenched leader and has been booked only six times in 8,000 minutes of international football. But team-mates talk glowingly of a man of substance, a quiet leader assiduous in welcoming newcomers to the England camp and always offering support and advice if any endure difficult times on or off the field.