Erik on wonder goal

Erik Lamela said his extraordinary goal against Asteras Tripolis was all about instinct.

The winger hit what is known as a ‘Rabona’ - wrapping his left foot around his right to strike the ball - and pinged into the top corner from 20 yards.

It left everyone at the Lane stunned for a few moments - team-mates and fans alike - to take in what they’d just seen!

Erik’s wonder goal was his first and our second as we ran up a 5-1 scoreline against the Greek side to go joint-top of Group C with Besiktas, who won 4-0 at Partizan Belgrade.

Harry Kane opened the scoring and went on to score his first senior hat-trick for us.

It was a night to remember for the striker who later went in goal after Hugo Lloris was sent off after a challenge outside his box with Tasos Tsokanis. Jeronimo Barrales curled home the free-kick.

Reflecting on his goal, Erik said: “I don’t know how to explain it.

“It’s just a split second decision. I didn’t really think about the situation. I went towards the ball looking to score and I’m delighted because it finished in the back of the net!

“Goals like this are just an instinctive thing. I got lucky! Maybe my right foot is not very good so I had to use my left!

“Sometimes I try these things and I’m happy because I scored. I’m happy because the team won and we got the three points so we’re in a strong position to qualify from the group.”

There was also praise for hat-trick man Harry. “I am very happy for him because he always stays late after training for extra practice. He works hard and trains a lot and for this reason he deserves the three goals.”