Rio Ngumoha targets Ballon d’Or glory after Harry Kane inspires England’s next generation

Liverpool youngster Rio Ngumoha believes Harry Kane’s Ballon d’Or triumph can inspire a new generation of English footballers to dream of becoming the best player in the world, with the 18-year-old confident he can one day follow in the Bayern Munich striker’s footsteps.

Kane made history last month by becoming the first Englishman in 24 years to win the prestigious individual award, ending a wait that stretches back to Michael Owen’s triumph in 2001.

His achievement has clearly resonated with Ngumoha, who sees the England captain’s success as proof that English players can reach the highest individual level in world football.

The Liverpool winger believes Kane’s recognition could encourage more young English talents to pursue similar ambitions rather than viewing the Ballon d’Or as an honour reserved for players from other countries.

Ngumoha, who has earned a call-up to the England squad for this week’s Nations League fixtures against Croatia and Spain, described Kane’s achievement as significant for English football.

“Harry Kane winning the Ballon d’Or is definitely a big thing,” the 18-year-old told British media.

He added that the Bayern Munich forward’s success could have a wider influence on the ambitions of upcoming English players.

“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 want to 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 emerging as Liverpool’s exciting young talent

Ngumoha’s ambition comes amid his growing reputation at Liverpool, where he has established himself as one of the club’s exciting young prospects.

The winger enjoyed an impressive breakthrough campaign last season, offering attacking quality and creativity as he became an increasingly important member of the squad.

One of his standout contributions came in Liverpool’s 4-3 comeback victory over Villarreal in the Champions League last month, where he provided an important spark for the English side.

His performances have also earned recognition at international level, with the teenager making three appearances for England since his debut in June.

His latest inclusion in the senior squad represents another significant step in his development as he continues to make the transition from promising academy prospect to an established first-team option.

At just 18, Ngumoha is already setting his sights on individual recognition at the highest level, with Kane’s achievement providing a reference point for what he hopes to accomplish in the future.

England prepare for Croatia and Spain tests

Ngumoha will now look to build on his progress as England prepare for two challenging Nations League fixtures during the international break.

Thomas Tuchel’s side will host Croatia at Wembley on Thursday before travelling to Madrid for Sunday’s meeting with world champions Spain.

The two matches offer Ngumoha another opportunity to gain valuable experience alongside some of England’s established international stars.

While his immediate focus will be on making an impression and contributing to the national team’s campaign, the Liverpool youngster has made his long-term ambitions clear.

Kane’s Ballon d’Or success has given him fresh motivation, and Ngumoha believes there is no reason why he cannot eventually reach similar heights.