Today is Radamel Falcao's 34th birthday.

The Colombian striker is one of the most recognisable footballers on the planet and during his pomp, he was one of the greatest forwards to have graced the beautiful game.

During his stints with FC Porto, Atletico Madrid and AS Monaco, Falcao was simply unplayable.

He was far more than just a predator, he was a striker blessed with immense skill and a wide variety of finishing techniques.

No angle was too acute for the Colombian master and striking the ball from distance was made to look easy.

It was with Atletico where Falcao truly excelled. Ask anyone and they will tell you that during the time he donned the famous red and white jersey, he was the best striker on the planet.

So on his birthday, we've decided to commemorate his success in La Liga with a video of his finest goals for Atletico.

VIDEO

Imagine ever thinking Falcao was a tap-in merchant.

Prior to his serious knee injuries sustained with Monaco, the South American star was also blessed with blistering pace.

Just look at the goal below against Barcelona at the Camp Nou. The guy was electrifying.

El Tigre could do it all.

In his 91 games for Atletico, Falcao scored 70 goals and provided nine assists.

It was the most prolific time of his career and you have to wonder what could have been had he stayed with Diego Simeone's side.

Falcao did enjoy a renaissance in the 2016/17 season with Monaco after his ill-fated spells with both Manchester United and Chelsea in the Premier League.

The Colombian scored 21 goals in 29 Ligue 1 games as the principality side dethroned PSG to win the title.

Falcao now finds himself over in Turkey with Galatasaray, where he's scored five times in nine Super Lig games.

We may never see the best of Falcao again - which is to be expected at 34 - but we'll always have those fond memories from his Atletico days.

Happy birthday, Radamel!