Coleman Praise For Diop

Last updated : 23 August 2004 By Mad Reporter
The Fulham boss had been intent on trying to sign a holding midfield player all summer and having failed to bring Gary Speed to Craven Cottage from Newcastle, swooped for the Senegal international instead under the noses of Portsmouth.

"We dragged our heels over signing Gary Speed from Newcastle and when we found out Papa had not put pen-to-paper at Portsmouth we went for it," Coleman told Sky Sports.

"A few years ago we had a reputation for playing pretty football but lacking bite. Not any more.

"I've heard Papa get compared to Vieira but I don't want him to get too much better or we'll never keep him."