Harry Kane: Tottenham striker mocked for plastic mask during Arsenal game

Kane broke his nose against Crystal Palace two weeks ago

Tom Sheen
Saturday 05 March 2016 14:10 GMT
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(Getty Images)

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Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane was mocked for wearing a protective mask during the crucial north London derby against Arsenal.

The England striker, 22, has to wear the mask after breaking his nose against Crystal Palace in the FA Cup last month.

But rather than wear a dark mask - like Diego Costa and Cesc Fabregas have worn in recent months - Kane opted for a clear one.

It's fair to say the mask gave him a rather comical look.

Fans on social media were quick to point it out to the striker, who didn't have much chance to impress during the first-half of a cagey derby against rivals Arsenal.

Here is some of the best reaction:

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino previously admitted he was worried that the mask might hamper Kane's striking instincts.

“He’s playing with a mask and sometimes it can disturb you,” said the Tottenham manager. “Maybe it’s easier for Nemanja Matic [the Chelsea defensive midfielder, who has worn a mask] or different players that play behind, because creativity is not their problem. But you need to be sharp when you are offensive and creative.”

However, Kane was the one laughing in the second half, as Arsenal imploded. Midfielder Francis Coquelin was sent off for a laughable second yellow card, before centre-back Toby Alderweireld equalised with a thumping effort.

Kane, just moments later, then put Spurs in front with a stunning effort that curled beyond David Ospina - in celebration he even ripped his mask off.

There was still to be another twist in the tail of a thrilling north London derby.

With Spurs pushing for a third Arsenal hit them on the counter-attack, Alexis Sanchez latching onto a through ball and hitting a shot that Hugo Lloris realy should have saved.

It somehow squeezed past him and Arsenal were back level at 2-2.

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