The ex-Cardiff City manager who gave Ballon d'Or winner Harry Kane his debut

Russell Slade gave Kane his professional debut at Leyton Orient in 2011 and was thanked by the Ballon d'Or winner during his acceptance speech.

When Harry Kane collected the Ballon d'Or, he thanked a list of managers who shaped his career—and among them was Russell Slade, the former Cardiff City boss who gave the then 17-year-old his professional debut.

On January 15th, 2011, Slade sent Kane on as a substitute in a League One match at Rochdale in front of just 2,731 supporters. Kane started the next game and scored, beginning a run of five goals in his first eight professional matches. While on loan from Tottenham at Leyton Orient, Kane helped the club go on a 14-game unbeaten streak that saw them finish seventh.

Slade recalls spotting Kane during a visit to Tottenham's training ground and being impressed by his intelligence and technique despite his slight frame. He noted Kane's dedication to practice, particularly his meticulous work on penalties after training sessions—a discipline that would define his career. Slade also gave young Ezri Konsa his debut at Charlton, proving his eye for emerging talent.