England: Harry Kane progress sensational, says Michael Carrick

Harry Kane has represented England at U17, U19, U20 and U21 levels

England newcomer Harry Kane's progress has been "sensational", according to team-mate Michael Carrick.

The striker, 21, has scored 29 goals for Tottenham so far this season and received his first senior call-up for the games against Lithuania and Italy.

"He's gone up two or three levels. His performances keep improving," said Manchester United midfielder Carrick.

Defender Gary Cahill added: "He has all the attributes [for a striker] - his confidence is sky high."

England face Lithuania in a Euro 2016 qualifier on Friday before playing Italy in a friendly in Turin on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Fabian Delph linked up with the England senior squad later than his team-mates on the first day of training. The Aston Villa midfielder was delayed due to a stomach bug before arriving at St George's Park.

'Kane is the real deal'

Harry Kane had scored 21 career goals before this season; this season he has scored 29

"As the spotlight's grown on Harry he seems to have grown and his performances have improved and improved," added Carrick.

"He looks like the real deal and I'm sure he's got a big, big future ahead of him."

And when asked whether he thinks Kane will start, Chelsea defender Cahill added: "That's down to the manager.

"We've got four top strikers here, all champing at the bit to play and Harry's in that bracket."

Kane has been an important figure in the England Under-21 side, who he helped qualify for this summer's European Championship. It has not been decided whether he will play in the tournament, with England senior coach Roy Hodgson fearing Tottenham's commercial interests could prevent him from competing.

"I think you just stay focused. He comes across as a top professional and I'm sure whatever he gets asked to do he'll go ahead and do," said Cahill.

Carrick on returning to the England squad:

Michael Carrick (right) has won 33 caps since making his debut for England in 2001

The 33-year-old has not played for the national side since the match against Poland in October 2013. He missed England's last matches against Slovenia and Scotland as he was still working his way back to fitness.

"It was very frustrating last time to sit out those two games but that's something you've got to deal with. I'm enjoying my football and it's great to be back," he said.

"It helps your general happiness. When things are going well you just want to get out and play football. That's the way I feel at the moment."

Cahill on fighting for a starting spot at Chelsea:

The centre-back had lost his place in the backline to Kurt Zouma in January and February.

"I'm back in the team, I had a few games where I was outside, but I just got my head down and worked hard to get back in the side," he said.

"But being at a top club you're in competition with top players and it's been no different from the moment I stepped in at Chelsea.

"There are always people to compete against, for me I just work hard and I just want to play football and at the moment I'm doing that so I'm happy."