England 1-2 Spain: Euro 2024 final heartbreak for England as late Spain goal secures fourth European Championship

Skipper Kane earned a share of the Euro 2024 Golden Boot by scoring three goals, but in every other respect the tournament was a major disappointment for England’s captain.

Kane has looked short of fitness and match sharpness, a shadow of the world-class striker who has delivered so often in the past and become England’s record goalscorer.

England’s supporters were loudly demanding the introduction of semi-final match-winner Ollie Watkins early in the second half – and there was little doubt who they wanted him to replace, voicing their frustration when Kane was slow to react to a loose ball in the penalty area.

Manager Southgate gave them their wish as Kane was taken off, cutting a desolate figure as he departed. He continues to wait for the first major trophy of his career, another opportunity on the big stage passing him by.

Watkins could not do the trick this time as he remained on the margins, although Palmer showed his class and made a big impact once more with his equaliser.

Southgate made the bold change of selecting Luke Shaw at left-back instead of Kieran Trippier as he reverted to a back four. It was the Manchester United defender’s first start in 148 days and his first England start since June 2023, and he responded with an excellent display.

England could not exert influence in other areas, with Phil Foden ineffective and Jude Bellingham kept quiet apart from one late effort, although the pair worked tirelessly.

Southgate and his players simply found, yet again, that they were playing a better side and now they must wait until the 2026 World Cup to have another tilt at success.