Following cross, blocks goal (4)
I believe the answer is:
next
'following' is the definition.
('next' can be a synonym of 'following')
'cross blocks goal' is the wordplay.
'cross' becomes 'x' (**).
'blocks' is an insertion indicator (the inside letters form a 'blockage').
'goal' becomes 'net' (net is a kind of goal).
'x' going within 'net' is 'NEXT'.
(Other definitions for next that I've seen before include "Succeeding" , "Coming immediately" , "Immediately afterwards" , "Retailer" , "Coming nearest in order - come, please!" .)