What former West Brom boss Ryan Mason said to close friend Harry Kane before Mexico World Cup heroics

Former Albion boss Ryan Mason has declared close friend Harry Kane the best player in the world as he continues to spearhead England’s World Cup charge.

Captain Kane struck from the penalty spot alongside a Jude Bellingham double as 10-man England secured a remarkable 3-2 victory over Mexico in the country’s Azteca Stadium to book a place in the quarter-final.

The spot-kick lifted Kane to within one of the trio leading the way for the World Cup golden boot - Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland have all netted seven goals. Frenchman Mbappe currently leads the race by virtue of two assists to the others’ zero.

Kane, double goal hero in the previous round against DR Congo last week, has moved to 14 World Cup goals in 16 appearances for England. Prior to this tournament he trailed Gary Lineker’s record of 10 by two, but a double against Croatia and goals against Panama, DR Congo and Mexico now have him four clear.

Former Spurs and England midfielder Mason was this time last year leading Albion’s pre-season having just been appointed in his first head coach role at The Hawthorns. Mason and Kane have been close friends since their school days and it is believed the two families were on holiday together before Mason put pen to paper on what proved to be a short stint in charge of the Baggies.

Mason delivered a public message to his former team-mate before the Mexico clash, where he declared the England frontman the world’s best. He said: “H, it’s Mase here.

“Obviously we’ve known each other for 20 years now, we grew up together in the academy. We dreamed together and we competed together.

“Just two boys desperate to make it.

“It was a unique experience to break through and play together with one of your best mates. It’s something I’ll always be grateful for.

“You set an example on and off the pitch for everyone, when it comes to football and your family.

“And even with all the success you’ve had, you’ve never changed. You’ve always shown humility. You’ve always had such a laser focus on becoming the very best version of yourself as a footballer and shown such consistency.

“It’s why you’re the best player in the world right now - and for me the easiest player in the world to coach.

“Mate, you deserve everything you’re achieving in football. I know how much it means to you to lead our country out. Every time you wear an England shirt it means something. Everyone can see that.

“You have an opportunity to create something that will last forever. I just want to say - I’m proud of you, we’re all behind you H. Come on England.”

Mason’s spell in charge of the Baggies lasted 27 games until early January, where he was dismissed after defeat at Leicester after nine wins at the helm, which left Albion 18th. Mason has yet to take up a new role.