Rudiger’s goal against Brentford shortlisted for April Premier League Goal of the Month award

Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger has seen his long-range strike against Brentford shortlisted for the April Premier League Goal of the Month award.

The Germany international scored the lead goal against the Bees in the Blues first April encounter.

Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante created the pass that saw the defender fire the shot 40 yards from goal.

Rudiger’s goal was Chelsea’s longest-range strike in the Premier League since a Frank Lampard goal in October 2006, over 15 years ago. The goal also sits third on the list of longest-range goals in the Premier League since Opta started recording such data.

Should Rudiger win, he would be the second Chelsea player to receive the award in 2022 after Mateo Kovacic won it in January for his goal against Liverpool.

Rudiger faces competition from seven other nominees: James Ward-Prowse (Southampton), Aaron Cresswell (West Ham), Enock Mwepu (Brighton), Miguel Almiron (Newcastle), Connor Roberts (Burnley), Granit Xhaka (Arsenal) and Rodri (Manchester City).

The winner of the April Premier League Goal of the Month award will be announced at 1pm on Thursday 12 May.