England captain Harry Kane believes his side have "reconnected" with the nation after reaching the World Cup semi-finals. Defeat on Wednesday night to Croatia means football will not be coming home, but Kane says Gareth Southgate's men can be proud of their performance at Russia 2018. The Tottenham striker Kane, 24, says this England side has overcome challenges which "haunted" past sides, after progressing further in the global tournament than any England side since Italia 90.

Kane wrote on Twitter: "A lot of emotions today. I'm so proud of this team and staff for giving everything we could over a long period of time together. We have overcome so many challenges that have haunted England in the past. We have reconnected with our amazing supporters. "It wasn't the outcome we wanted and I'm sure we will learn an awful lot from last night's game. "It's time now to hold our heads high as a nation and be proud of each other. I'm excited to be part of this team and the challenge to improve going forward. Thank you all."