Mendy 'not counting' clean sheets as he hails team effort for Chelsea defensive strength

The French shot-stopper has been a revelation for the Blues but refuses to take sole credit for their improved defensive record.

Edouard Mendy is “not counting clean sheets” as he insists he himself is not completely responsible for the recent improvement in the Chelsea defense.

Mendy was brought in by Chelsea from Rennes in the summer transfer window to replace Kepa Arrizabalaga, who gradually went completely out of favor at the club.

The 29-year-old has done an excellent job between the sticks and has been one of the most consistent performers in the team since then.

Recording 22 clean sheets in his first 38 matches in all competitions, the goalkeeper has played a crucial role in the Blues’ run-up to the semi-finals of the Champions League, rise up to fourth in the Premier League standings, and the team making it to the final of the FA Cup.

“I know I made a lot of clean sheets but I’m not counting them,” Mendy told France Football. “That’s because it’s not something that I make on my own.

“The goalkeeper is as important as the guy in front of him. At the end of the day, I’m the one who has to make the stops, yes. But in front of me, there is a whole structure, ten players who move and complicate the task of the opponent.

“It’s a team performance and not something I can own on my own.”