FORMER LEAGUE OF Ireland striker Eamon Zayed has been making a big impression for Indy Eleven in the NASL, which is essentially the second-tier in North America.
The Indianapolis, Indiana team, also home to former Kilkenny City and Cobh Ramblers player Colin Falvey, have benefited substantially from the ex-Derry City, Bray Wanderers and Shamrock Rovers player’s contribution.
The 33-year-old Dubliner has registered 14 goals and six assists from 29 games played after joining the club ahead of the 2016 season.
Former Liverpool and Chelsea player Cole has been similarly impressive since moving Stateside.
The midfielder has scored seven goals and produced the same number of assists in 22 matches for the Tampa Bay Rowdies.
Meanwhile, Belfast-born former Linfield and Ballymena United player Albert Watson also makes the cut thanks to his stellar displays in defence for FC Edmonton.
The award is given to the league’s most valuable player (MVP) over the course of the season.
The nominees are chosen by the league’s 12 coaches, who are allowed to vote for players other than their own.
NASL Golden Ball nominees: Nazmi Albadawi (Carolina RailHawks), Matt Van Oekel (FC Edmonton), Albert Watson (FC Edmonton), Eamon Zayed (Indy Eleven), Cristian Ramirez (Minnesota United), Justin Davis (Minnesota United), Juan Arango (New York Cosmos), Ayoze (New York Cosmos), Michel (Rayo OKC), Joe Cole (Tampa Bay Rowdies).
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