England Legend Backs Harry Kane in Ballon d’Or Race
The former England striker hailed the captain’s remarkable form and placed him among the leading contenders for football’s biggest individual prize.
Gary Lineker has openly backed Harry Kane to win the next Ballon d’Or after a spectacular season with Bayern Munich and England.
Kane has carried last season’s remarkable form into the new campaign. After scoring 61 goals for Bayern and another 12 for England, the striker has six goals in seven appearances for the German club this season and recently found the net twice again for his country.
His name is firmly among the leading contenders for the Ballon d’Or, with Lineker also pointing to Lamine Yamal as one of Kane’s biggest rivals for the award.
Much More Than a Goalscorer
Lineker particularly highlighted that Kane’s influence goes far beyond the penalty area. Speaking at a Leaders Week conference at Stamford Bridge, the former England striker praised his finishing with both feet, aerial ability and the defensive work he contributes away from goal.
“What Harry Kane has done is absolutely incredible. He’s a phenomenal footballer,” Lineker said in comments reported by The Independent.
For Lineker, that all-around development has made Kane a far more complete striker than he himself was during his playing career.
Kane Keeps Making History With England
The striker also continues to strengthen his place in England history. His recent brace in the 3-0 Nations League win over Czechia saw him match Peter Shilton’s 125 international appearances.
Kane has also reached 91 goals for England and earlier this year surpassed Lineker to become his country’s all-time leading scorer at the World Cup.
That sustained level of performance is one of the main reasons Lineker believes his compatriot deserves recognition on the global stage.
The Ballon d’Or Is Getting Closer
The answer will come on October 26, when the 70th edition of the Ballon d’Or ceremony takes place in London.
Until then, Kane will remain focused on maintaining his remarkable form with Bayern Munich. For Lineker, however, the case has already been made: he hopes to see Kane win the award and, even more importantly, finally lift a major trophy with England.
What Strengthens Harry Kane’s Ballon d’Or Case
- 61 goals for Bayern and 12 for England last season.
- He now has 91 goals and 125 appearances for the England national team.
- Gary Lineker places him alongside Lamine Yamal among the leading Ballon d’Or contenders.
