By Oliver Trust
BERLIN, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Harry Kane carried the MVP trophy from Bayern Munich's 3-1 Champions League win over Chelsea on Wednesday like a treasured souvenir.
"It's for my son. They're not heavy, and he loves to carry them around," said the 32-year-old England captain, who called it "a happy morning" for seven-year-old Louis.
Kane's children - two girls and two boys - may be used to such gifts. Their father continues his relentless run, with scoring goals seemingly his favorite pastime.
The former Tottenham striker, who joined Bayern in 2023, praised his teammates "for creating chances I only have to finish." But it was Kane who drew the acclaim after a record-setting night.
With two goals against the reigning FIFA Club World Cup holder, Kane reached 53 career goal contributions in the Champions League, surpassing David Beckham's record for an English player.
"You rarely have a player like him on this planet," Bayern sporting director Christoph Freund said. "His record is far from ordinary. He not only constantly scores but is a perfect team player."
Freund called Kane both a goal-scoring machine and a playmaker, while also praising his defensive work. Kane has also filled in additional duties during the injury absence of attacking midfielder Jamal Musiala.
"I have extra tasks, and it works well," Kane said. 'We fully understand the coach's ideas and approach after his 15 months in charge."
Coach Vincent Kompany added: "His efforts off the ball, his pressing, his involvement up front, in midfield, and in the back - just take what I said as copy and paste for the rest of the season."
Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer also marked his 100th Champions League victory, joining Cristiano Ronaldo, Thomas Muller and Iker Casillas in the milestone club. Bayern extended its record of not losing a competition opener since 2002.
Bayern noted that Kane has been directly involved in a goal every 39 minutes this season. International media already list the Bavarian side among the Champions League favorites, though Kane kept his outlook modest.
"You have to take it step by step," he said. "First qualify for the top eight in the new format, then the knockouts, then hopefully the final. We're in a flow, and it's important to ride the wave as long as possible."
For now, Kane's children remain thrilled with the souvenirs - and their father looks poised to collect many more. ■