“I am not here as a superstar, I am not a superstar,” El Hadji Diouf said during his first interview upon signing with Sabah FA
The two-time African Footballer of the Year arrived at Kota Kinabalu in November 2014, sending Sabah fans into frenzy mode besides generating attention from all over Malaysia. It was certainly a statement of intent, and he perhaps the biggest player to have signed for Sabah.
But despite the excitement of having a world-class player in Sabah, fans could not help but be skeptical over his signing. Diouf is very much a familiar name among Malaysians, as we are some of the most active followers of English football. And throughout his career, the 34 year-old has consistently generation ill fame for controversial incidents. In fact, former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher recently revealed that Diouf was probably the worst player he’s ever played with.
“We respect his character. They criticize him for his bad reputation from the past but we should give him a chance to prove himself and I am positive that he will be an inspiration for the team,” Sabah’s CEO, Datuk TC Goh said prior to the season.
But the situation turned sour when George O’Callaghan made a crucial mistake of signing Tales Dos Santos without being aware of FAM regulations. Weeks later, George was shown the exit door alongside newly signed Singaporean, Fazrul Nawaz, who was absent from training for over a week. It was a huge blow for the team and fans started getting worried as well, considering the team structure appeared to be collapsing even before the season-opener. Beyond that, they were also concerned that the entire fracas could lead to Diouf’s departure.
But every single one of them were proven wrong and all hopes were restored during the launching ceremony of Sabah’s new jersey. “It’s going to be a long season with ups and downs, but we will not make it without the fans support. I promise you this; we are present here to launch the jersey. But at the end of the season, with your support, we will be back here again, as champions,” he proclaimed.
Since then, Diouf has emerged as a massive fan favourite. Most fans have been surprised with his humility and friendliness off the pitch and the ex-Liverpool man has been professional in dealing with fans as well. He’s effectively brought fans closer to the team. The average crowd attendance at the Lika Stadium last season was approximately 5,000 people. But within three matches this season, the attendance is already averaging at about 11,000. Best part? The numbers are expected to grow in the coming weeks.
Sabah’s excellent run in the MPL thus far, has undoubtedly been influenced by his leadership on the pitch, as well as his performances as the focal point of their attack. With three goals and six assists to his name, it’s no doubt as well. Though it’s still early to say, Diouf could potentially be the best player in the Premier League. Like it or not, he has taken the league by storm and his presence has restored belief within the Sabah fans, who are now hoping to see their team emerge as champions for the first time in almost 19 years.
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