The UK government has hinted that Harry Kane could be in the running for a knighthood after the “extraordinary achievement” of winning the Ballon d’Or.
The England and Bayern Munich player became the first English winner in 25 years in a ceremony at the London Palladium on Monday night.
The award crowns the striker as the best individual player in global men’s football.
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham offered his congratulations.
A spokeswoman said: “The PM would like to congratulate Harry Kane on winning the Ballon d’Or.
“To be the first Englishman to win it in 25 years is an extraordinary achievement, and what a moment to do it here at home.
“Seventy years after Sir Stanley Matthews won the inaugural award, it caps a remarkable season and Harry continues to set a brilliant example to young players across the country, and the PM knows the whole nation will be incredibly proud of him.
“And, hopefully, there’s another trophy to celebrate with England before too long.”
She was also asked whether the Prime Minister would like to see the player knighted.
“On your question about a knighthood, I think everyone would agree, Harry Kane has given an enormous amount to English football, and this is a very special moment for him in the country, but, as ever, I’m not going to pre-empt the honours process,” the spokeswoman said.
Michael Owen was the last player from England to receive the prestigious individual accolade in 2001, but Kane’s incredible 73-goal haul last season for club and country earned him the award from French magazine France Football.
He followed in the footsteps of Stanley Matthews, Bobby Charlton, Kevin Keegan and Owen as a Ballon d’Or winner from England.