Football fans often hear about Achilles and his heel, but in the modern game, Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane has his own Achilles’ ankles. Despite his recurring ankle injuries, Kane’s physiology is what makes him one of the best strikers in the world. Biomechanist Archit Navandar explains how Kane’s “floppy ankles” contribute to his exceptional ball-striking and goal-scoring abilities.
Kane’s ankles allow him to adapt his technique and have flexibility and mobility in his lower leg, giving him an advantage over other players. Navandar breaks down Kane’s kicking technique into four phases, highlighting how Kane’s ability to change the orientation of his ankle at the last moment makes him unpredictable and difficult to defend against. Kane’s wide range of finishing techniques, his ambidexterity, and his adaptability make him a formidable force on the field.
Despite facing multiple ankle injuries throughout his career, Kane continues to evolve as a striker. From observing former teammate Jermain Defoe’s quick shots to perfecting his iconic across-the-goalkeeper finish, Kane’s skill set reflects his dedication to improving as a player. His penalty-taking has also seen significant improvement, with Kane scoring 21 consecutive spot kicks since his crucial miss in the 2022 World Cup quarter-final.
Kane’s ability to overcome his physical limitations and adapt his game has earned him numerous accolades, including seven Golden Boots for club and country. As he continues to showcase his talent and resilience on the pitch, Kane remains a key player for both Tottenham Hotspur and the England national team.
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