Photo via BBC Sport

Georgia's Kvaratskhelia proud of Best comparison

Paris Saint-Germain forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia expressed immense pride after being named to the thirty-player shortlist for the prestigious Ballon d'Or award, which will be presented on October 26. The twenty-five-year-old standout acknowledged the comparison to Northern Ireland legend George Best, who remains the smallest nation's sole recipient of the honor following his 1968 victory.

Ahead of an upcoming Nations League fixture against Northern Ireland, national team manager Michael O'Neill lauded the Georgian attacker as a world-class talent, while his coach Willy Sagnol commended his humility and team-first mentality.