From Oblivion To Superstardom As Vardy Makes It Into Ballon d'Or 30-Man-Shortlist

Leicester City's fairytale has continued with their two standout performers recognised now on the global stage.

Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez catapulted the Foxes to a maiden Premier League title - in undoubtedly the story of last season.

And consequently their feats have seen them rubbing shoulders with the very best footballers on the planet after making the cut for this year's Ballon d'Or.

Vardy, who scored 24 goals in a historic season for the Foxes, was named on a 30-man list of nominees for the prestigious award, which is currently held by Barcelona star Lionel Messi.

France Football, the sole organisers of the prize given to the best footballer in the world following a split from FIFA, revealed Vardy was in contention in a tweet published on Monday evening.

The Sheffield-born player is the only Englishman nominated, while Real Madrid's Gareth Bale represents Wales after his heroics at Euro 2016.