How do you solve a problem like Harry Kane (£7.0m)?
The three-time Premier League Golden Boot winner is England’s standout player but he’s been noticeably anonymous at Euro 2020 so far.
As is the way with English media, a 0-0 draw to Scotland has prompted a dramatic overreaction. In the same way there was a lot of hyperbolic praise after victory over Croatia, Friday’s goalless damp squib has attracted hysterical criticism.
And Kane’s role has been the subject of the weekend’s discourse – is he underperforming or being starved of decent service? Or both?
Kane is yet to register a shot on target at this summer’s tournament and Dream Team Euros gaffers have been transferring him out in their droves over the weekend.
He’s still the third-most popular player in the game (40.2% ownership) but we’re talking about an individual who appeared in over 60% of teams at one stage.
The mass exodus is understandable as Kane is yet to provide a single point. Compare that to Cristiano Ronaldo’s total of 33 points and it’s clear why the Portuguese superstar is about to overtake the 2018 World Cup Golden Boot winner in the popularity stakes.
Those currently sticking by Kane have a big decision to make.
He’s simply too good to write-off – would it really be that surprising if he scored a brace against Czech Republic? – but on current evidence he’s an expensive burden.
The Three Lions are one of only three teams in the tournament yet to concede a goal (alongside Sweden and Italy) but only Scotland have scored fewer goals.
Perhaps it’s better to back the likes of John Stones (£4.0m) and Jordan Pickford (£3.5m) if you think England still have what it takes to go deep at Euro 2020.
Kane has scored two goals in his last 11 England games and while you’d still fancy him to convert a penalty if given the opportunity, he doesn’t look as dangerous as Ronaldo, Ciro Immobile (£5.0m) or Romelu Lukaku (£6.0m).
If England’s skipper doesn’t produce against Czech Republic then his ownership will surely plummet further.
There’s no room for sentiment in Dream Team Euros.