KANTE EARNED A PLACE IN HISTORY

AS THE time to cast votes nears, some are casting doubt on N’Golo Kante’s claim for Footballer of the Year. Kante (below) is poised to be unique in English football history — the only player ever to complete successive seasons at separate clubs, and win the title both times. That, surely, would be sufficient testament to his influence and ability. But, no. Leading the sceptics is Joey Barton. ‘At the moment, everyone swears by Kante,’ he said. ‘It’s fashionable.’ Actually, that isn’t true. What Kante is on the brink of achieving is historic and, therefore, tangible. Barton appearing on Question Time? That is fashion.