Clermont’s Nick Abendanon is named European Player of the Year

He was on the losing side in last week's Champions Cup final, but Clermont full-back Nick Abendanon has been rewarded for his superb season by winning the European Player of the Year award

The Englishman, who joined the French side from Bath last summer, scored four tries during Clermont's route to the last Saturday's decider, including this stunning effort against Toulon that gave his side hope of coming from behind to win a first European crown. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MU8mFoHF9AA#t=55 In all, Abendanon was the dominant attacking force in Europe this season, racking up 929 metres gained and beating 34 defenders during Clermont's campaign, including a game-high 155 in the final. The full-back said: "I realise that this is an individual award but it is, for me, a recognition of the players around me who have shown such resolve and endeavour during a tough European season. I would therefore like to accept it on behalf of the whole squad as a small consolation for Saturday's disappointment."