Bayern Munich`s decision to feature Harry Kane as a central figure in their latest Bundesliga title celebration should silence the doubters. Kane seemed as uneasy posing for the official team photo in a suit as he did wearing traditional lederhosen upon his move to Bavaria.
However, on the field, where performance truly counts, the 31-year-old England captain has seamlessly integrated into the Bayern squad. With his first senior trophy secured – an achievement for which he was unfairly ridiculed given his immense talent – it`s time for Kane to be universally recognized as a fantastic representative of English football.
It`s perfectly understandable why Kane, who generally abstains from alcohol except for a brief summer break, joined his teammates in celebration, even sharing a video of the squad singing Queen songs on Sunday.
While transfers abroad by players like Kevin Keegan, David Platt, Steve McManaman, Michael Owen, and David Beckham were met with respect and admiration, Kane`s move to Munich seemed to attract more scorn and derision, particularly after Bayern`s Bundesliga challenge faltered against Bayer Leverkusen last season. He was unfairly blamed, as if he carried a “curse,” an idea that is, of course, complete nonsense.
Kane`s contribution was undeniable, scoring 36 of Bayern`s 94 Bundesliga goals last season, a tally only surpassed in league history by Gerd Muller and Robert Lewandowski. He amassed 44 goals across all competitions.
Despite being ahead in the Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid when Kane was substituted late on, and England struggling through Euro 2024, he still faced criticism. It was evident that Kane wasn`t at his peak physical condition during the Euros, though his mental strength in crucial moments, like his semi-final penalty against Holland, was undeniable. Despite this, some called for his removal as England captain and starting striker in favor of players like Ollie Watkins or Ivan Toney.
Such criticism has now subsided. Thomas Tuchel clearly demonstrated his confidence in Kane, and the striker has consistently been Bayern`s standout performer. Ultimately, Kane`s statistics provide the most compelling counter-argument.
His extensive list of England scoring records speaks volumes: most goals overall, most competitive goals, most goals in major tournaments, most goals as captain, and most goals under a single manager, among others.
Assuming he stays fit and plays for another five years, including three more major tournaments, Kane is well on track to become the first player to score 100 goals for England.
Before leaving Spurs, he had already surpassed Jimmy Greaves as the club`s all-time leading scorer, and is now only 47 goals short of Alan Shearer`s Premier League record.
With his first senior trophy now secured, it could potentially open the floodgates for further success at both club and international level. He is also clearly motivated to break Shearer`s Premier League record. His potential path could involve another year in Germany to win another title, leading England to World Cup glory, followed by a return home where many clubs would eagerly welcome his guaranteed goal-scoring ability.
While a Premier League title isn`t essential for his legacy, if any player deserves one, it`s arguably England`s finest striker.
Spurs Injury Blow
Just when Ange Postecoglou might have seen improvements, a new wave of injuries hit. Losing both Lucas Bergvall and James Maddison was a more significant setback than Bodo/Glimt`s late equalizer on Thursday. Spurs now face a trip to the Arctic Circle without two key players, which will test their much-touted courage in important matches.
Palmer Silences Critics
Cole Palmer stated he wasn`t affected by `trolls and idiots` who questioned him during a recent three-month period. This dip in form was his first career blip, so his return to scoring was expected. However, his reaction brought to mind Fernando Torres, who blamed others for his struggles after his 2011 move to Chelsea and refused media interviews following the constant focus on his goal drought.
Controversial Guard of Honour
Arne Slot`s apparent `selective deafness` at Stamford Bridge on Sunday highlighted another reason why Liverpool`s title win was relatively well-received outside of Chelsea. Despite loud boos from Chelsea supporters as their team formed a guard of honour, Slot claimed not to have heard them. While previous manager Jurgen Klopp`s style often antagonized rival fans, Slot has maintained a lower profile during their successful season. This shows the effectiveness of a quiet, determined approach.
