Harry Kane has been crowned the best player in world football after winning the Ballon d'Or this week, becoming the first Englishman to claim the award since Michael Owen in 2001. The honour follows a standout campaign for both club and country, with Kane now confirmed as the world's top player.
English football fans have taken as much pride in Kane's achievement as his club, Bayern Munich. A key factor behind his triumph was his performances for England at the World Cup, where the Three Lions reached the semi-finals for a second time in eight years.
Fans divided over knighthood campaign
While Kane has broken his club-level trophy hoodoo, an international triumph with England still eludes the former Tottenham star. That has not stopped England fans from campaigning for Kane to receive a knighthood for his services to football.
However, that opinion appears to be in the minority. According to Express Sport readers, roughly two in every three believe Kane has not done enough to be given a knighthood. Overall, 69 per cent of people said Kane should not receive the honour, despite his recent Ballon d'Or win.
Reasons behind the split
The reasoning may stem from Kane's lack of a trophy as England captain, having lost two European Championship finals and reached the World Cup semi-finals twice. Alternatively, his club achievements with Tottenham and Bayern may pale in comparison to other footballers who have received knighthoods, such as David Beckham and Kenny Dalglish.
Downing Street hints at future honour
Those opposed to a knighthood might be left disappointed, given Downing Street hinted at a potential future honour. A spokesperson said: "The PM would like to congratulate Harry Kane on winning the Ballon d'Or. To be the first Englishman to win it in 25 years is an extraordinary achievement, and what a moment to do it here at home."
The spokesperson added: "Seventy years after Sir Stanley Matthews won the inaugural award, it caps a remarkable season and Harry continues to set a brilliant example to young players across the country, and the PM knows the whole nation will be incredibly proud of him. And, hopefully, there's another trophy to celebrate with England before too long."
Asked whether Kane should receive a knighthood, the spokesperson said: "I think everyone would agree, Harry Kane has given an enormous amount to English football, and this is a very special moment for him and the country, but, as ever, I'm not going to pre-empt the honours process."
