Lunev hails Safonov’s place among elite goalkeepers

Dynamo goalkeeper Andrey Lunev says Matvey Safonov’s nomination for last season’s best goalkeeper award is “worthy of admiration and respect”.

Safonov, who plays for Paris Saint-Germain, is among the candidates for the prize after establishing himself on the international stage. The winner will be announced on 26 October at the Ballon d’Or ceremony.

The 26-year-old has made seven appearances for Paris Saint-Germain in all competitions during the new season and has kept one clean sheet.

Lunev, who currently represents Dynamo, was asked to respond to Safonov’s nomination and praised the achievement.

“Worthy of admiration and respect,” Lunev said.

Safonov’s market value is estimated at 30 million euros, according to Transfermarkt. That figure places him eighth in the ranking of the world’s most valuable goalkeepers.

The nomination gives Safonov the opportunity to be recognised among the leading players in his position worldwide, with the final decision due to be made at the Ballon d’Or ceremony on 26 October.