Olivier Giroud wins FIFA's Puskas Award for best goal of the year

ESPN staff

Olivier Giroud's remarkable scorpion kick for Arsenal against Crystal Palace was awarded FIFA's Puskas Award as best goal of the year on Monday.

The Frenchman's effort, a flicked volley with his left foot that flew in off the crossbar, was announced as the winner at a ceremony held at the London Palladium on Monday.

Giroud's strike scored in January outpaced competition from Venezuela Under-17 women's striker Deyna Castellanos and South African goalkeeper Oscarine Masuluke.

On accepting his award, Giroud said: "First of all I have to say it's an honour for me.

"I'm delighted to receive this trophy today in front of legends of football. Now l'd just like to thank the people who voted for me. I would like to congratulate the 10 nominees who scored amazing goals too.

"Obviously I would like to thank my teammates, without them I couldn't score maybe this goal, and my family."

The event was attended by a host of football stars past and present, including Diego Maradona, Ronaldo, Frank Lampard, Sergio Ramos and Harry Kane, with winners decided by a jury of club and international coaches, media representatives and fans.