Gary Lineker Backs Harry Kane to Win Ballon d’Or and End England’s Drought

England striker Harry Kane has been backed by former national team forward Gary Lineker to win the Ballon d’Or, breaking a historical drought for English football. Goal.com and independent.co.uk reported the endorsement, highlighting Kane’s extraordinary goalscoring form and recent achievements for both Bayern Munich and his country.

Gary Lineker backs Harry Kane for Ballon d’Or glory

Speaking at a Leaders Week conference at Stamford Bridge, Gary Lineker argued that the 33-year-old forward deserves the prestigious individual accolade following a staggering campaign. Last season, Kane netted 61 goals for Bayern Munich and added 12 goals for England. The Independent noted that the Bayern star has carried that momentum into the current campaign, scoring eight goals in as many total appearances for club and country so far this season, including six strikes in seven matches in Germany.

Lineker contrasted Kane’s complete modern game with his own traditional penalty-box style, praising the England captain’s versatility.

He is not just a penalty box player like I was. I would just lurk around and get the odd goal, but you saw him last night, he was clearing up at the back, too. He is a phenomenal footballer, incredibly intelligent, a really good guy, and what a career he has had.

Gary Lineker

The endorsement follows a historic international window where Kane matched Peter Shilton’s 125-cap England record and scored twice during a 3-0 Nations League victory against the Czech Republic at Wembley Stadium, bringing his record international tally to 91 goals.

The historical context of England and the Ballon d’Or

If Kane claims the trophy, he would become the first English winner of the Ballon d’Or. Lineker pointed out that past English recipients like Michael Owen and Kevin Keegan won the European Footballer of the Year award. Independent.co.uk noted that Lineker views the race as coming down between Kane and Lamine Yamal.

Support for the Bayern Munich forward extends within the national team setup as well. According to Bavarian Football Works coverage, England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford stated that he would love nothing more than to see his teammate lift the trophy. The wider football community continues to monitor the shortlist as the October ceremony approaches.

The upcoming Ballon d’Or ceremony in London

The 70th edition of the Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled to take place on October 26. Organizers have chosen London as the host city for the event specifically to commemorate the accolade’s very first winner, English football icon Sir Stanley Matthews. Until the winner is announced, Kane remains active with Bayern Munich in Germany as he pursues domestic and European silverware.