Former England captain Alan Shearer is convinced the game of Tottenham striker Harry Kane is maturing.

Shearer wrote for BBC Sport: "Tottenham have lost twice in the past seven days, and it's no coincidence that Harry Kane had a quiet game on both occasions.

"I still think Spurs are serious title contenders despite those defeats by Liverpool and Leicester, but for them to start firing again after Christmas, they will need Kane back on top form.

"His attacking contribution with nine goals and 10 assists in 14 Premier League games for Tottenham this season has been amazing and is a big reason they are at the top end of the table - when he plays well, Spurs usually do too.

"It is the England captain's all-round game that has really impressed me in the past few months, though, because I have noticed what he does at the other end of the pitch too.

"I still see Kane as a goalscorer - you have to, because of the sheer number he gets - but it shows how good he is that he is also a creator and defender for Spurs.

"It is rare to see such an effective, attacking all-rounder in any circumstances, but on top of that he is the ultimate team player too, willing to do whatever is asked of him."