Sunderland defender Papy Djilobodji felt he was a victim of politics at Chelsea.

The former Nantes defender joined Chelsea on deadline day last year, but admits he was given little chance to prove himself.

Djilobodji told So Foot: "Did my transfer to Chelsea surprise me? Yes, it surprised many. But I knew I could do it. I always said I wanted to play for a great club, make a nice career, and Chelsea is one big club.

"There, I was doing everything I could, I worked hard in training, I showed that I was present ... But I've never had a chance, the coach never let me play.

"Those who pushed Jose Mourinho to take Kurt Zouma led him not to take me. So we must see, and read between the lines. And do not just watch the headlines! I signed with Chelsea, a big club, and a wish of every player.

"Whether it's Africans or Europeans, Senegalese ... all of them want to sign for a big club as I did. I still played 59 seconds!"