Senegal pair Kalidou Koulibaly and Sadio Mane have acknowledged that they were disappointed to see Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy left off the shortlist for the Ballon d'Or.
Mendy enjoyed a stellar first season at Stamford Bridge, keeping a total of 25 clean sheets in the Premier League and Champions League.
The ninth of his European shutouts came in the Champions League final as Chelsea recorded a 1-0 victory over English rivals Manchester City.
However, despite his achievements during 2020-21, the 29-year-old was a notable absentee when the 30-man shortlist for the Ballon d'Or was announced last week.
When quizzed on the matter while on international duty, compatriot Koulibaly has suggested that African players do not get judged fairly when it comes to individual accolades.
Speaking to reporters, the Napoli defender said: "It's a real shame that Edou isn't one of them. He is the first African goalkeeper to win the Champions League.
"We must continue to work and move forward. We have to do the double of some people to be well judged.
"Edou is a very positive person. We talked about it together. He will continue to fight to be part of it. For me, he has a place among these 30 players."
Mane also commented on the decision, the attacker being quoted by Onze Mondial as saying: "It's inadmissible. I don't understand it. It's regrettable".
Mendy has kept a further four clean sheets in all competitions this season.
Darren Plant
