England captain Harry Kane believes his side has “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 24-year-old Tottenham striker 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 to his 2.29million followers: “A lot of emotions today. First of all 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 and have enjoyed this incredible experience together.

“It wasn’t the outcome we wanted and as painful as it is right now, I’m sure we will learn an awful lot from last night’s game.”

England have made great strides under captain Harry Kane and manager Gareth Southgate, right
England have made great strides under captain Harry Kane and manager Gareth Southgate (right) (Owen Humphreys/PA Images)

England supporters at home and in Russia got behind Southgate’s men, reviving the Euro 96 anthem ‘Three Lions (Football’s Coming Home)’.

And Kane is relishing the future in a youthful team.

He added: “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 for your support!”