Downing Street refuses to rule out England captain receiving a knighthood after his Ballon d’Or triumph

Prime Minister Andy Burnham congratulated the 33-year-old England captain on the historic feat.

A No10 spokeswoman 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.

“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.”

She was questioned whether the Prime Minister would like to see the England captain knighted.

The spokeswoman said: “On your question about a knighthood, 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.”

Michael Owen was the last English player to win the individual accolade in 2001, but Kane’s incredible season saw him crowned the best.

He had a memorable campaign with Bayern, winning the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal and German Supercup.

Kane won his second consecutive European Golden Shoe, netting 36 league goals in 31 appearances for his club.

With England, the striker scored six goals in seven World Cup games and went on to equal Peter Shilton’s record of 125 caps for the Three Lions.

He captained England to their best finish at a World Cup since winning the tournament in 1966.

Kane mentioned his Three Lions teammates during his speech after collecting the award, saying: “We had a special year. It wasn’t the perfect year, but we had a load of great moments. We built a great bond together.

“The togetherness in the hotel in the World Cup. An honour to captain you and lead you. It makes me extremely proud. This one is for all of us for sure.

“Thomas Tuchel and the staff at England, again the leadership the way you drive us, the way you push standards is something to be admired.”

Kane gave a special mention to his family, saying: “I know how much support you give me. We all live these emotions together.

“I know how much help off the pitch, it allows me to perform and do my best on the pitch.

“My wife Kate, my best friend. You’re my biggest supporter. We have done it. You always want the best for me. You sacrifice yourself to help me achieve my dreams. It wouldn’t be possible without you.”

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