Di Matteo surprised by lack of Chelsea players on Ballon d’Or shortlist

31-Oct-2012 12:30:00 AM

Former striker Didier Drogba was the sole nominee from the club's successful Champions League squad on the 23-man list, and the Italian is disappointed at the lack of recognition

Roberto Di Matteo has revealed his surprise at the lack of Chelsea players in Fifa’s 23-man Ballon d’Or player of the year shortlist.

Former Blues front man Didier Drogba has been rewarded for his displays over the past 12 months with a place on the list of players, but Di Matteo believes more of his current crop should have featured following their Champions League success.


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“That is a bit disappointing because as the winners of the Champions League you would have expected it to recognise the performances of our players,” he told the club's official website.

“It is a hard one to explain, I'm not sure if they look a lot at the international games as well.”

Di Matteo was named in the 10-man shortlist for Fifa’s coach of the year after guiding the club to their maiden Champions League title, and the 42-year-old said he is enjoying the “challenging job” at Stamford Bridge.

He added: “It is a privilege to be the manager of Chelsea and to work with these world-class players, trying to achieve success. It is a great, challenging job.”

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi is favourite to win the award - if he does so he will become the first player to win the prize four years in a row.