Gary Lineker makes Alan Shearer laugh with England joke on BBC after Harry Kane debate

Gary Lineker had a witty response live on BBC following his England Euro 2024 debate with Harry Kane.

Lineker was at the helm during BBC's broadcast of the Italy vs Croatia draw on Monday evening. His appearance followed hot on the heels of Kane's remarks responding to Lineker's comments about England's underwhelming display against Denmark.

Despite standing by his views, Lineker admitted that Kane was entitled to his opinion. Yet, he couldn't resist a quick joke about England in the build-up to England's last group stage encounter.

Following Spain's win over Albania on Monday night, it meant Gareth Southgate's squad had progressed to the knockout rounds. Delivering this could be the case during the Italy vs Croatia coverage before the match got underway, Lineker delivered a quip directed at both himself and Kane, which made Alan Shearer laugh.

Lineker quipped: "If Albania fail to win tonight, England are officially through to the last 16. Because even if they lose tomorrow they will go through as one of the best third-placed teams. I wish people would stop being so critical of them."

After England's progression was officially confirmed, Lineker added: "We can start with the news that England are through to the knockout stages, so I don't know what everyone is complaining about." Shearer then sarcastically responded: "Who has been complaining?"

The words between Lineker and Kane ignited when the Match of the Day presenter slammed England's display against Denmark as "s***". The former Barcelona player did not pull any punches with his critique of Southgate's team.

Lineker, speaking on the Rest is Football podcast, said: "I think we have to reflect the mood of the nation. I can't imagine anyone who is English would have enjoyed that performance because it was lethargic, it was dour. You can think of all sorts of words and expletives if you like, but it was s***. ".

Kane expressed his frustration over the harsh criticism levelled at him and his fellow England players. He has called for pundits like Lineker to moderate their remarks as England continue its quest for a first major trophy since 1966.

Kane, addressing Lineker's blunt critique, emphasised the impact such comments have: "What ex-players have to realise is that it is very hard not to listen to it now, especially for some players who are not used to it or who are new to the environment. I always feel like they have a responsibility.

"I know they have got to be honest and give their opinion but they also have a responsibility as an ex-England player that a lot of players looked up to. People do care about what they say and people do listen to them."

"Everyone has got their opinion but the bottom line is we have not won anything as a nation for a long, long time and a lot of these players were part of that as well, so they know how tough it is.

"It is not digging anyone out. It is just the reality that they know that it is tough to play in these major tournaments and tough to play for England. We all want to win a major tournament. Being as helpful as they can and building the lads up with confidence would be a much better way of going about it."