Harry Kane: Bayern Munich forward could return this year

Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany says Harry Kane could play again this year despite the England captain limping off during Saturday’s Bundesliga draw against Borussia Dortmund.

Kane will miss Tuesday’s German Cup tie against holders Bayer Leverkusen but Kompany is upbeat about the striker playing again before the winter break that begins on 22 December.

“There’s a chance he’ll play again this year but he’ll definitely miss a few games,” said Kompany on Monday.

Kane, 31, has made a fine start to the season, scoring 20 goals in 19 appearances across all competitions.

Kompany says he has the talent in his squad to cover Kane’s absence.

“You cannot replace the goals or the player one-for-one – that’s why he is a top player,” said the Belgian.

“We have talent in the team and need to solve it differently.

“We have many options. Thomas Muller, Mathys Tel, Serge Gnabry, Michael Olise, Leroy Sane. I have named almost everyone.

“Obviously, Harry has scored 20 goals but we have other players who score goals, including Jamal Musiala.

“We have enough players who can fulfil the role, even if you can’t replace his goals one-to-one.”

Bayern have failed to reach the semi-finals of the German Cup since they last won the competition in 2020.

The club have lost in the second round in three of the past four seasons and face a Leverkusen side who won the league and cup double last season.

“We play the cup holders – one of the top two or three teams in Germany, and I hope our performance will match the importance of the game,” added Kompany.