Ireland defender Nathan Collins turned into Franz Beckenbauer on Tuesday night as he produced a mazy run and finish against Ukraine.
Collins bagged his first goal for his country in his sixth international appearance during their 1-1 draw with Ukraine at the Stadion LKS in Lodz, Poland in the Nations League. The Burnley star intercepted a loose pass just inside the opposition half before going on a galloping run which saw him skip past three defenders.
Once inside the penalty area, he showed a striker's instinct as he poked the ball past the onrushing goalkeeper with the outside of his boot.
Fans of both Ireland and Burnley lapped up the solo effort on social media, with one tweeting: “Holy s***. Nathan Collins is the love child of Franz Beckenbauer and Franco Baresi.”
Another supporter added: “This lad is an absolute Rolls Royce of a footballer. If we can keep hold of him this summer I’ll be surprised.”
A third fan wrote: “Best centre back in the championship by some distance.” Meanwhile, another also tweeted: “My word Nathan Collins, that is immense.”
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The 31st minute strike gave Stephen Kenny's side the lead, although, they were unable to hold on for the three points with Ukraine pegging them back shortly after the interval through Artem Dovbyk.
Having lost their first two Nations League matches to Armenia and Ukraine, Ireland sit third in their group after following a dominant win over Scotland with a point against Ukraine.
Promotion is still a possibility for Ireland, who will play their final two matches in September as they travel to Scotland before hosting Armenia in their final match.
Collins has become a key man for Ireland in recent months, playing every minute of the last five internationals to reach six caps for his country.
Sadly, however, his debut Premier League season recently ended in disappointment after Burnley were relegated from the top flight on the final day.
The 21-year-old joined the Clarets from Stoke City last summer for £12.6million and made 22 appearances across all competitions, scoring twice.
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