MADRID Real Madrid striker Raul has been named by UEFA as the best forward in the Champions League for the second year in a row, the Spanish club said on Wednesday.

The 24-year-old Spanish international was the top scorer in last season's competition with a total of seven goals and has notched a record 28 strikes in the Champions League overall, Reuters reported.

He also topped the scoring charts in the Spanish league last season with 24 goals, one more than Barcelona's Brazilian forward Rivaldo.

The club said that Raul will receive the award on August 23 in Monte Carlo, when the draw for next season's competition is made.