Ngumoha targets Ballon d'Or glory after Kane inspires England's next generation

Liverpool winger Rio Ngumoha has set his sights on winning the Ballon d’Or, citing Harry Kane’s achievement as proof that English players can reach the summit of world football.

The 18-year-old, who has earned three senior England caps, made the bold declaration ahead of Thursday’s fixture against Croatia at Wembley, where he could earn a first international start following Bukayo Saka’s injury absence.

“Harry Kane winning the Ballon d’Or is definitely a big, big thing, being known as the best player in the world,” Ngumoha said. “It’s also helped English football now because everyone’s seen one of us win the Ballon d’Or. It is definitely encouraging many more people to wanting to definitely be known as the best player in the world. For me, I would like to achieve it and I think I can do it.”

Ngumoha described Kane — who is set to become England’s most capped player at Wembley on Thursday — as an inspiration not just to him personally but to the entire squad, pointing to the Bayern Munich striker’s influence in training as evidence of why he claimed the award.

“I haven’t spoken to him much, really. When I first came, I was a bit shy, so I was keeping myself to myself, but then they got me in the group,” Ngumoha said. “Just watching him train — especially the finishing drills — you can see why he won it and why he’s known as the best striker, best player in the world. Definitely an inspiration to me, but just to every young player and probably every England player as well. He’s a top guy.”

On his own prospects of starting against Croatia, Ngumoha was measured but ambitious. “I think you know I’m competing with the best players in the world, so it’s not going to be easy,” he said. “But if I can show myself in training and if the manager gives faith and believes in me, then yeah, I’d love to start.”

Ngumoha joined Liverpool and quickly attracted attention for his pace and directness on the wing. With Saka sidelined, the teenager represents one of the more intriguing selection decisions facing the England coaching staff ahead of Thursday’s game.