Kyle Walker, Jude Bellingham react to skipper Harry Kane's penalty miss against France

England endured another heartbreak at the World Cup after they lost 1-2 against France in the quarterfinal clash on Saturday. The Three Lions put up a dominant effort but unlike France, they failed to make the most of their chances. England skipper Harry Kane failed to convert a penalty that was awarded in the closing stage of the contest after a lengthy VAR check. Kane sent the ball way over the crossbar thus bringing an end to England's campaign in Qatar.

England and Manchester City full-back Kyle Walker backed striker Kane, calling him a big character and a leader. Walker backed his captain, saying it takes a big character to step up and take the penalty in such situations, and said that he has been playing alongside Kane since he was 15 years old.

“That takes a big character to step up on both occasions. He’s a big character and a leader, I’ve had the pleasure of playing with H since he was 15. His mentality has stayed the same. I’m not just saying that because of the situation. It doesn’t change, it stays the same,” said Walker to talkSPORT.

‘He has done more than enough’- Jude Bellingham

England midfielder Jude Bellingham said that Kane has performed consistently and there is no negative feeling toward him as he has done everything to win for the country.

“I just said, as the leader of the team that he is with the media and on the pitch, I felt it was important I kept him in the game mentally. For me, I can’t thank him enough for how he’s integrated me into the team and I’ve seen him deliver time and time again.” Bellingham was quoted as saying.

“On this occasion, he didn’t score. But he’s done more than enough for his country. I just wanted to remind him that he can still win the game. It wasn’t to be but there is no negative feeling towards him after what he’s done for this country.” He said.