Former England captain Wayne Rooney said Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane won’t slow down for England’s sake ahead of the FIFA World Cup. Kane has been in top form for the German side, scoring 48 goals in 40 appearances this season.

Rooney said Kane will hold the key to England’s chances in the upcoming quadrennial event. However, the former Manchester United striker said Kane will be fully focused on helping Bayern to glory this season.

Munich is currently at the top of the Bundesliga and are nine points clear of second-placed Dortmund.

“I think such an important aspect for England is having Harry Kane fit and if he is, then he’ll be a major reason why we do win it if we do,” Rooney told the Press Association.

“But if you go into any game and you’re not fully committed to that game because you’re thinking of something else then you potentially could get injured.

“Any player will tell you that you’re playing for your club and when you’re playing for your club, that’s all that matters until that season is over then you go away with England then England take over.

“I don’t think he’ll be slowing down. Hopefully, Bayern Munich has the league won quite early and [head coach] Vincent Kompany gives him a little bit of help!”

Kane did not play the friendly clash against Uruguay on Saturday, which ended in a 1-1 draw after Thomas Tuchel made a handful of changes. He will return to action for the next game against Japan.

“He’s consistent in what he’s done his whole career: he’s scored goals, he’s created goals at both club and international level,” the former Manchester United and England captain said.

“To do it year in, year out, and he never gets mentioned for the big honours which I find quite strange.”

England will take on Japan on Tuesday.