One of the Premier League's least popular players - which is just how he likes it – the Senegal star loves to bamboozle and bewitch
Diouf started at Sochaux, Rennes and Lens but built his reputation on the international stage, being crowned African footballer of the year in 2001 and in 2002. A star of the 2002 World Cup, he terrorised France before guiding Senegal to the quarter-finals.
Diouf’s dribbling ability and skill earned him a £10m transfer to Liverpool but he struggled to live up to expectations and became infamous for spitting at Celtic fans during a UEFA Cup clash. Reinvigorated at the Reebok – despite further spitting allegations by Middlesbrough and Birmingham fans – he thrived under Sam Allardyce, initially on loan, and then as the club’s record signing, soaking up and encouraging the abuse from opposition fans.
Best used wide in a front three running at defenders, he is excellent at retaining possession and in 2004 was named by Pele in a list of the 125 greatest living footballers.