Antoine Griezmann has told Goal he believes that Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy was one of last season's top three players.
The Atletico Madrid star said Vardy, whose outstanding form helped propel the Foxes to the Premier League title, deserved praise for his achievements.
The former non-league striker scored 24 goals as the rank outsiders swept to a stunning success.
And France international Griezmann, asked to name his leading three players of the year, said: "Cristiano Ronaldo first, as he's won two titles. Then Lionel Messi, because he's unique, and after that maybe Jamie Vardy for winning the English title with Leicester."
The 25-year-old paid tribute to his club coach Diego Simeone and international boss Didier Deschamps before hailing Leicester manager Claudio Ranieri for his work.
"Leicester's title was unexpected, especially against teams like Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal, Tottenham and Liverpool," he added.
"It's something incredible that they won the championship."