Kane, 21, has been the revelation of the English Premier League season, scoring 26 goals in 42 games, and has been rewarded with a first senior England call-up for the forthcoming games against Lithuania and Italy.

He is also likely to be selected by England Under-21 coach Gareth Southgate for the European Championship in the Czech Republic, starting on 17 June, and Hodgson is concerned that participating in Spurs' game with Sydney on 30 May will prevent him from getting a proper break.

"Personally speaking, playing for England at Under-21 level in a tournament is more important than a friendly in Malaysia (sic) and I would be very hypocritical if I didn't give that answer," Hodgson said.

"If he needs a rest, there's a great opportunity when the season ends and before our Under-21's get together to give him a rest.

"You can't expect me in good faith to say, 'I understand that he shouldn't be resting for the Australia trip - he should be doing that (going to Australia) and then resting when the Under-21's pitch up.' I can't go along with that."

Tottenham has committed to taking its best available squad to Australia, while manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday (AEDT) he would speak to the Football Association about the best way to manage Kane's workload.