Harry Kane is currently playing at a level that few are able to match, cementing his status as the premier marksman in European football. Former England striker Peter Crouch believes Kane's performances have made the Bayern Munich captain a frontrunner to lift the game's most prestigious individual honour, Ballon d'Or. A masterclass at the Santiago Bernabeu Kane scored once again in the UEFA Champions League against Real Madrid at the Bernabu. Under the brightest of lights, Bayerns star striker shone brilliantly, dispatching all lazy narratives of him disappearing in big games. It was a performance that reinforced his status as the premier centre-forward in world football, proving he can deliver when the stakes are at their highest. The strike in Madrid was more than just another goal; it was a statement of intent in the race for individual honours. Hes extended his incredible goalscoring record this season to 49 goals in just 40 appearances with Bayern this seasons. Kane's achievements this season are extraordinary Kane's achievement drew praise from Crouch, with the former Tottenham striker stating to Paddy Power: "This year is one of those years where there isnt one clear standout. But Harry has got something like 49 goals in 40 games. Thats outrageous isnt it really? You can say the Bundesliga isnt as strong as La Liga, but I watched the whole game on Tuesday and they battered Real Madrid. 2-1 flattered Real Madrid." The World Cup has an influence on assessments This year's Ballon d'Or awards coincide with the World Cup, which will undoubtedly influence the judging. This year, Kane has scored six goals for the England national team. "Harry is the main man," Crouch noted. "An absolute banker for a goal and it doesnt matter who he is playing against. Hes the most lethal man in the world at the moment and why shouldnt he be favourite for the Ballon dOr? "The World Cup is a huge factor and hell have to do well in that. If Bayern are in and around the Champions League final as well I think hes got a great chance [of winning the Ballon dOr]." What next for Kane? Crouch considers Kane the most effective striker currently and highlights the importance of Kane's success in the upcoming World Cup and Bayern Munich's potential Champions League performance as key factors for his Ballon dOr chances. Kane still has the opportunity to continue his impressive form with Bayern and add to his goal tally, with six Bundesliga matches remaining. After facing St. Pauli, Bayern will host Real Madrid in the second leg of the Champions League at the Allianz Arena midweek, looking to secure their place in the next round after securing a win in the first leg.