The first criterion involves the individual performance of the player in question. This is separate from the overall fortunes of their club or national team and is strictly judged on their own showings on the pitch.

As far as Kane is concerned, he was one of the standout performers across the world of football last term, having served up a record-breaking season. The English striker netted 73 goals in 65 matches in all matches for club and country, and is one of the only contenders whose individual performances were consistent across the full 11-month voting period.

The second factor voters are asked to consider is the behaviour and attitude each player displayed on and off the pitch. Again, Kane should rank highly, given the ex-Tottenham ace is considered one of football’s gentlemen and is highly respected by peers and pundits alike.

Where Kane’s campaign might fall down is on the third criterion. That’s because voters are also considering the collective performances and titles won across the season.

Kane lifted the Bundesliga title with Bayern, as well as the DFB Pokal. But as far as the World Cup, as well as the Champions League, was concerned, the marksman didn’t get past the semi-finals.

As far as the voting process itself is concerned, the Ballon d’Or jury is made up of specialised journalists, with one representative per country, for each of the top 100 nations according to the FIFA rankings. Every jury member selects 10 players in descending order from the 30-player shortlist, with the chosen stars receiving 15, 12, 10, 8, 7, 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1 points, respectively.