Cristiano Ronaldo faces Sunderland whizkid Elliot Embleton and Christian Eriksen for Uefa Goal of the Season
Young Lions star can't believe his stunner against Turkey U-19s is on the shortlist with Ron's overhead for Real against Juve
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SUNDERLAND starlet Elliot Embleton is hoping to beat Cristiano Ronaldo to the Uefa Goal of the Season gong.
The Black Cats midfielder, 19, has been nominated for the award for his stunner for England against Turkey in July’s Under-19 Euros.
Embleton is on an 11-strong shortlist, which includes Ronaldo’s overhead kick for Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals.
And Embleton said: “It’s really unbelievable to be nominated alongside the best player in the world.
“He has won five Ballon d’Ors and I’m just starting out, I am very proud.
“I remember watching his goal against Juventus as it happened and I would never have imagined one of my goals would be going up against his.
“His goal is next level — but I wouldn’t say mine is too far behind.
“If all my friends and family vote for me, maybe I might just tip it!”
Embleton's strike sealed victory for the Young Lions in their opening group match in Finland, as he cut in and curled home from 20 yards.
Uefa technical observers said it was a “fine piece of individual skill and a superb left-foot finish”.
Embleton explained: “When it came to me I only had one thing on my mind — get inside and hit one.
“It took us 3-1 up and sealed the win. I would say it’s the best goal I’ve scored. I got lovely bend on it.
“To go to the Euros and get a few assists and a goal was great for my development.
“The target now is to play more games in the Sunderland first team.”
Lucy Bronze is the other English star on the shortlist for her goal for Lyon against Manchester City in the women’s Champions League semi-finals.
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Tottenham ace Christian Eriksen has also been nominated for the first goal in his hat-trick against Ireland in the second leg of Denmark’s 5-1 World Cup play-off victory.
The award is in its fourth year and was won by Mario Mandzukic last year and Lionel Messi in 2015 and 2016.
There is one nominee from each of the main Uefa competitions — and only goals registered in Uefa club or international fixtures are eligible.