England's World Cup hopes cannot rest on Kane alone

KANSAS CITY, Missouri, July 2 : England's World Cup campaign has increasingly come to rest on the shoulders of Harry Kane, whose goals, link-up play and ability to deliver in decisive moments have repeatedly rescued a side still searching for fluency and conviction. 

The captain was again central to their 2-1 win over the Democratic Republic of Congo in the round of 32 on Wednesday, but England's reliance on their talisman raises a growing question as the knockout stage intensifies: how far can they go if Kane is the only player consistently capable of turning pressure into progress?

Once again at the World Cup, England were saved by their record goalscorer. 

With DR Congo threatening one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history, Kane dragged his team back from the brink with two goals in 11 minutes, the second a stunning piece of individual skill.

The performance earned praise, but also highlighted a familiar concern.

ENGLAND WINNING - BUT NOT CONVINCING 

England have reached the last 16 unbeaten, yet they have rarely looked convincing. Their attacking play has often lacked rhythm, their defence - hampered by injuries - has appeared shockingly vulnerable, and too often they have needed Kane to provide the solution when collective dominance has been absent.

Former England captain and centre forward Alan Shearer told the BBC: "It wasn't a good performance and I've got the same concerns as I had in the previous two or three games about us defensively."

Kane has once again shown why he remains among the world's elite forwards, capable of deciding matches by himself.

"There's not many centre forwards in the world can produce that piece of magic," Shearer said. "The way he turns and swivels - and the balance is incredible. Then to