Kane calls for funding to help football tackle youth crime

Big impact: Harry Kane says playing sport gives youngsters “that community feeling”
Glenn Copus
David Churchill14 April 2016

Harry Kane today said he believes in the power of football to help stop disadvantaged young people being sucked into street crime.

The Tottenham and England striker, who grew up in Chingford and played for local club Ridgeway Rovers as a boy, said he did not know anyone directly affected by knife or gang crime, but believes the sport can have a “big impact” on the direction of young lives.

Speaking at White Hart Lane, he said this was one of the reasons more money should be ploughed into grassroots football.

He said: “It can be difficult as a kid, you’re not sure what you want to do sometimes, but if you have that community feeling where you can go and play football in the evenings instead of hanging around on the streets, then it can only help. I think football can play a big part and make a big impact.

“I know football does help get people off the streets... it’s a hobby for them to do something, to keep them occupied. I think the more money that gets put into it, the better. It can definitely help people make their life better whether it’s playing and becoming professional or playing somewhere new.”

Kane, who signed for Spurs at 11, says he is not yet the club legend he wanted to become when he took over the Number 10 shirt, which was worn by Jimmy Greaves, Gary Lineker and Teddy Sheringham.

He said: “I don’t think I am. I think a legend is something that is over a period of time. I’ve enjoyed this season with the Number 10 shirt and hopefully there’s many more years to come like this.”

Becoming an England legend would mean “winning things” — something he believes could happen in France in Euro 2016.

He said: “I think I would just say to the fans to stay calm and patient.There’s no rush. I was a fan once and wanted the country to do its best, but putting pressure on the players isn’t going to help that situation, I think you’ve just got to go and enjoy the tournament.”

This season, Barclays is giving one fan the chance to present the Barclays Premier League trophy to the Champions. Could you be the one?

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