Šmicer backs Bayern Munich's Harry Kane for Ballon d'Or

Former Liverpool midfielder Vladimír Šmicer says the Bayern Munich striker should be the favorite for this year's award over Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé.

Former Czech Republic international Vladimír Šmicer has named Harry Kane as his pick to win this year's Ballon d'Or, saying the Bayern Munich striker's overall career should tip the balance in a close race.

Šmicer, who played for Liverpool and scored in the 2005 Champions League final, told Grosvenor Sport that Kane's main rivals each come with caveats. He noted that Lamine Yamal performed well for Barcelona but was injured and did not have a strong World Cup, while Kylian Mbappé impressed at the World Cup but was uneven at Real Madrid earlier in the year.

"For all that he has done in his career, it should be Harry Kane," Šmicer said, adding that he would like to see Kane add the award to the Golden Boot and Bundesliga title he has already won.

Kane, who moved to Bayern from English football, has reportedly drawn support from others around the Munich club as the Ballon d'Or discussion continues.