Former Arsenal star nominated for UEFA Champions League player of the week

Galatasaray's German forward Lukas Podolski celebrates scoring during the UEFA Champions League football match between Galatasaray AS and SL Benfica at the Ali Sami Yen Spor Kompleks stadium in Istanbul on October 21, 2015. AFP PHOTO / OZAN KOSE (Photo credit should read OZAN KOSE,OZAN KOSE/AFP/Getty Images)

Galatasaray’s summer signing Lukas Podolski has been shortlisted for the UEFA Champions League player of the week award.

The former Arsenal player has been listed alongside Hulk, Ivan Rakitic, Javier Hernandez, Alvaro Morata, Sofiane Feghouli, Jackson Martinez and Willian.

Podolski scored Galatasaray’s winning goal in their crucial 2-1 victory over the Portuguese giants Benfica in the Champions League.

The Germany international scored in the 33rd minute with the outside of his foot.

The Istanbul Giants were a goal down after just two minutes when Gaitan capped off a well worked free-kick.

Selcuk Inan scored Galatasaray’s first goal in the 19th minute from the penalty spot.

The victory re-ignites the Lion’s Champions League campaign following a disappointing start after losing against Atletico Madrid in Istanbul and drawing to Astana in Kazakhstan.

The Lion’s take on Benfica once again in the next round of UEFA Champions League games.

See More
Arsenal star Ozil predicts more Turkish players to join Premier League: Five potential candidates
Three little-known facts about Arda Turan