Diego Simeone lauds Ballon d’Or winner Harry Kane; says hard work the reason for Englishman’s success

Diego Simeone talks ahead of the UEFA Champions League tie between Atletico Madrid and Bayern Munich. Both teams are looking to improve its form in the UCL. | Photo Credit: AFP

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone hailed Harry Kane a worthy Ballon d’Or winner as his ‌buoyant side prepares to put its ​nine-game unbeaten run on the ⁠line against Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Simeone praised the England captain’s ‌enduring scoring instinct ahead of the clash at the Metropolitano stadium.

“Firstly, ‌I’d like to congratulate him ‌on ⁠his well-deserved Ballon d’Or. It’s ⁠incredible, I’ve always admired him. As he’s matured over the years, he’s found his best ​form without losing ‌his eye for goal; he knows what the team needs,” said Simeone.

The Argentine said Kane’s influence extended beyond his performances.

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“His ‌talent is a real asset to ​the game and to the young players who look up to ⁠him, because he leaves a legacy showing that you can achieve great things ‌through hard work.”

Atletico has won eight of its last nine matches in all competitions, including a 2-1 La Liga derby victory over Real Madrid. However, the ‘Los Rojiblancos’ sit 16th in the Champions League standings ‌with just one win from three matches. Bayern sit just one point ahead at 14th, with successive draws in the ⁠competition.

“Finding that balance and consistency is the ⁠hardest part, and it’s what all of us coaches want. We need to enjoy the run and approach it with enthusiasm as ​we move forward,” said Simeone.