Kane opens up on Ballon d’Or after 73-goal season

Harry Kane is delighted to see his name among the competitors for the Ballon d’Or after enjoying a remarkable season, with the England captain saying he is “extremely proud” of his achievement.

The 33-year-old Kane is regarded as one of the favorites to win the prestigious award in October. The Bayern Munich striker scored 73 goals for club and country last season, surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo’s previous career-best tally of 69 goals in a single season, set in 2011-12. However, Kane still trails Lionel Messi’s record of 82 goals in a season.

Should Kane win the Ballon d’Or, he would become only the fifth Englishman to receive the award. Sir Stanley Matthews, Sir Bobby Charlton, Kevin Keegan and Michael Owen are the four English players who have won it previously. Owen was the last Englishman to claim the prize in 2001.

Speaking to TNT Sports in an interview with Owen Hargreaves, Kane said: “I’m extremely proud of the season I’ve had. It wasn’t too long ago that I was just a fan dreaming of becoming a professional footballer. Now I’m here winning awards. The Ballon d’Or is one of those things as well.

“Of course, it’s not in my hands now. The voters and everyone involved will make the decision. This was the best season of my career. Now I just have to wait and see what happens.”

Kane, is yet to score in the Bundesliga this season. Bayern began their campaign with a 5-1 victory over Stuttgart before being held to a goalless draw by Schalke in their second match.