World Cup 2022: England back home

Captain Harry Kane said England would use their defeat by France to be “mentally and physically stronger for the next challenge” as they headed home from the World Cup in Qatar.

England were beaten 2-1 in the quarter-finals, with Kane missing an 84th-minute penalty, having earlier equalled England’s scoring record of 53 goals.

Gareth Southgate’s side left their hotel in Al Wakrah before their flight home.

“Absolutely gutted,” said Kane.

Writing on social media, the Tottenham forward added: “We’ve given it everything and it’s come down to a small detail which I take responsibility for. There’s no hiding from it, it hurts and it’ll take some time to get over it but that’s part of sport.

“Now it’s about using the experience to be mentally and physically stronger for the next challenge. Thanks for all the support throughout the tournament – it means a lot.”

Speaking about Kane’s penalty miss, former England striker Alan Shearer told BBC Radio 5 Live: “That’s the life of a centre-forward. You put yourself in those positions and it will haunt Harry for the rest of his life.”

England departed their hotel in Qatar at about 12:30pm local time and landed at Birmingham Airport on Sunday evening.

Players waved to fans gathered outside the hotel as they boarded a coach, with midfielder Jude Bellingham taking the time to sign memorabilia.

England centre-back Harry Maguire echoed his captain’s words, and also paid special tribute to Southgate, who has said he will “review and reflect” on his side’s exit with the Football Association before making a decision on his future.

Southgate, who has been England manager since 2016, has a contract that runs until the Euro 2024 finals.

“Last night hurt. Absolutely gutted. Special thanks to Gareth and you amazing fans who kept belief in me. I love my country and I hope we made you proud,” said Maguire on social media.

Under Southgate, England reached the 2018 World Cup semi-finals and the Euro 2020 final before their elimination by the defending champions in Qatar.

“Gareth has been amazing with myself, amazing with every player in the team,” Maguire said in an interview.

“I’m sure if you asked every player in the team they wouldn’t be able to speak highly enough of him, his man-management, the way that this team has been built and developed over a period of time.