Albiol: Casillas criticism unfair

Real Madrid's Raul Albiol says criticism of Iker Casillas is unfair and is part of an 'objective' to stop him winning the Ballon d'Or.

The Spain skipper has been lambasted in the media recently for apparent mistakes in league games for Madrid. But Albiol has questioned the integrity of the criticism, claiming the reports to have ulterior motives. "When these types of criticisms are made, there is an objective. This campaign is to give those who choose the Ballon d'Or one less problem," Albiol said. "It is clear that to win the award as a goalkeeper is very difficult but, if anyone can do, it is Iker. Last year, he won trophies with Spain and with Real Madrid. He had a great season." Albiol believes Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Casillas and Andres Iniesta all deserve to win the award. "The most just thing would be to give a Ballon d'Or to Cristiano, Messi, Iker and Iniesta too. There is only one, but many players would deserve it," he added.