Kane’s Ballon d’Or success could help repair English football’s image, says PR expert

Mark Borkowski, the prominent public relations and marketing specialist, believes Harry Kane can help restore the reputation of English football after Manchester City was found guilty of serious financial breaches of Premier League rules.

Borkowski made the comments after Kane received the Ballon d’Or at a ceremony where he was given a standing ovation. The striker thanked his wife and family, as well as naming the long list of coaches he has worked with during his career.

Kane’s achievement comes at a difficult moment for the sport in England. Manchester City’s conviction on all charges relating to serious breaches of the Premier League’s financial regulations over nine consecutive seasons has damaged the image of English football.

Borkowski believes Kane has the character and profile to take on a wider public role and help rebuild confidence in the game.

“Let’s face it, British football is in a very bad place at the moment in terms of reputation,” he told The Sun. “Regardless of what the Premier League does about Manchester City, Harry Kane could be the saviour of football’s reputation in this country.”

The expert added that Kane appeared ready to move beyond the conventional image of a footballer and take on a role with greater significance.

“I think he already feels like a statesman, and feels there is a bigger role for him to play than all those stereotypical roles that footballers fall into,” Borkowski said.

“In his career, he may have two or three more trophies left to win. His aim will be to bring the World Cup to England, which would bring him a great deal of money and create a long-lasting legacy.”

Kane’s position within the national game is likely to become increasingly prominent, according to Borkowski, who compared his potential influence with the figures most closely associated with England’s greatest football achievement.

England continues to celebrate its 1966 World Cup winners, particularly Sir Geoff Hurst, who has acted as an ambassador for English football since the country won the Jules Rimet Cup.

Borkowski said Kane could eventually build an even greater legacy through his conduct and public standing.

“Harry Kane can play the role of England’s ambassador because of his values and personality,” he said. “He could leave a bigger legacy than David Beckham himself.”