Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand believes Harry Kane will be extra motivated to face the Red Devils ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League tie against Bayern Munich.
Erik ten Hag’s side are set to face the Bundesliga champions in their Group A curtain raiser, and Kane has been thrust under the spotlight with the striker set to face a familiar foe.
Before his blockbuster move to Bayern, Kane was a primary target for Man United, with Ten Hag especially keen to recruit the free-scoring Englishman.
However, a move never materialised as Tottenham Hotspur were reluctant to sell their headline performer to a direct rival, while Man United also had their reservations about the player’s £100 million price tag.
They ultimately dropped their interest in the England captain to pursue a move for Danish striker Rasmus Hojlund, who set them back an initial £64m.
Kane has since enjoyed a flying start to life in Bavaria, bagging four goals and an assist for the Bundesliga title holders while also creating one big chance.
The 30-year-old is expected to lead the line for Bayern on Wednesday evening, and Ferdinand expects his compatriot to be extra motivated to perform in the mouthwatering clash.
“I can’t wait,” Ferdinand told TNT Sports. “Look at the clubs. Two clubs with huge history,”
“The backdrop of Harry Kane being there as well, the England captain, someone who a lot of Man United fans would have wanted to come and wear the United shirt.
“He’s a phenomenal player – his record speaks for itself. Champions League football, he’s been there, he’s produced before, he’s been to a final [in 2019] but never won it.
“He hasn’t got his hands on any silverware, so the bit will be between his teeth. I don’t think there will be anyone in the Man Utd dressing room taking him for granted or being complacent.”
Having suffered a damning defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion over the weekend, Ten Hag is aware his side will need a much-improved performance if they are to get a result in Germany.
