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Harry Kane has been told to ‘play to his strengths’ in a bizarre putdown by former Bayern Munich boss Felix Magath. Kane, 32, is in the middle of another sensational season for the German giants, having hit 36 goals in 32 appearances in all competitions.

That form has seen the England captain extend what is an eye-watering record at the Allianz Arena following his 2023 move from Tottenham Hotspur. But former Bayern and Fulham boss Magath has been less than impressed, having strangely slammed the striker for helping out too much defensively.

Speaking to SPORT, the 72-year-old said: "I would always use players according to their strengths. Harry Kane can score goals. He's praised by everyone and everyone cheers that he also runs around at the back. But that's not his job.

“Kane can clear as many balls at the back as he wants, but he helps the team more when he stands up front, waits, gets the ball and puts it in the net. If he were to run around up front instead of in midfield or at the back, that would be better for the team."

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Magath’s comments are similar to the criticism Kane faced on occasion during his spell with Spurs in the Premier League, with the striker regularly criticised for dropping too deep. Despite that, Bayern head coach Vincent Kompanyhas praised the forward for his performances for the side.

Speaking earlier this month, he said: “He has so much experience and knows exactly when and where to move into the gaps. He’s constantly communicating with his teammates. He finds a good balance between distance and proximity to the defenders.

“He’s always very attentive when it comes to second balls. He can also score goals from 25 meters; he has a wide range of options for scoring goals.”

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Kane’s current contract with Bayern Munich is set to run until next summer, having been linked with a return to the Premier League. But talks regarding a new deal are already underway.

“We’re talking and it’s clear to everyone that there has to be a decision at some stage,” Bayern’s board member for sport, Max Eberl, said. “We’re waiting for an answer from [the defender Dayot Upamecano] and we’re talking with Harry.”

Kane will be aiming to extend his brilliant form for Bayern this coming weekend as the reigning German giants welcome Hoffenheim. Kompany’s side currently sit six points clear of nearest rivals Borussia Dortmund at the top of the Bundesliga.

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