Dominic Solanke explains the Tottenham conversation he had with Harry Kane on England camp
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Dominic Solanke has made a superb start to life at Spurs with his impressive form earning him a recall to the England squad for the first time in seven years.
The striker may not be banging in the goals just yet but his performances have been key in helping Ange Postecoglou’s side and he is quickly becoming a fan favourite at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Solanke’s display against West Ham earned him plenty of praise as his work rate and general play were crucial in the win.
The former Chelsea man has just recently been away with the England squad in which he had a chance to speak with his Tottenham predecessor Harry Kane.
Dominic Solanke’s Harry Kane chat
Solanke has revealed that he spoke a lot with the Tottenham legend whilst away on England camp and had a chance to pick his brains over what it takes to become one of the best centre forwards in Europe.
The 27-year-old claims he did not ask for specific advice but learned a lot from their conversations about Kane’s experiences throughout his career.
Solanke told the Independent: “Yeah, of course, we spoke a lot while we were there together and we have this [Tottenham] in common now so we spoke and he is a great guy. A great lad to learn from.
“Not really [any advice]. We were just speaking about his experiences and stuff like that. Obviously, he has done so much in football and it's nice to pick his brain.”
Solanke is unlikely to ever hit the heights of Kane in North London, however, Spurs once again having a strong presence leading the line looks to have taken the team to the next level.
How did the media rate Dominic Solanke vs West Ham?
The media gave lots of big ratings for Solanke’s display against the Hammers which says a lot considering he didn’t even need to get on the scoresheet.
He played a key role in the equaliser as he won possession back for Spurs on the halfway line which saw his team counter and James Maddison set up Dejan Kulusevski.
Some supporters may be critical and point out that he failed to register a shot on target, but many will acknowledge his superb work ethic.
The Evening Standard gave him a 7/10 and wrote: “No goal this time, but a tireless display with some great runs into the final third.”
Football.London were very impressed by his contribution and gave him an 8/10: “Not many chances on goal to begin with but was instrumental to Kulusevski’s goal after getting a vital touch to stop Tomas Soucek winning possession.
“Showed his strength, determination and quality on the ball midway through the second half after some persistent play created an opening for Johnson. Some really good play throughout and all that was missing was a goal.”
Spurs fan site Cartilage Free Captain were very satisfied with their striker’s contribution writing: “He didn't score, but he did a ton of really good work in the press and in and around the box. Facilitated Kulusevski’s goal in the first half and is proving again why Ange Postecoglou wanted him so badly. He fits this Spurs team like a glove.”
