Friday Apr 04 2008 13:53
Bolton Wanderers boss Gary Megson has played down recent comments from El Hadji Diouf suggesting that he would leave the club even if they avoid relegation from the Premier League.
Senegal forward Diouf claims that a number of clubs across Europe are interested in his services, signalling an end to his time with the Trotters.
However, Megson said ahead of the clash with Aston Villa: "I spoke to him on Thursday and it's no big deal.
"You don't know what the future holds and nobody knows what's going to happen. Dioufy said some things, but he's a terrific lad and a good player.
"We want to try and keep him for the rest of the season, playing as well as he is at the moment.
"I don't know if he'll still be here next season, but I don't make a big deal of it because it's not a big deal.
"The big deal is that we are in the bottom three and four points adrift."
Diouf had earlier told L'Observateur: "If Bolton stay in the top division or not, I will not stay next year for sure.
"Whether Bolton remain in the league or not, it is my last year. But it does not prevent me from respecting and admiring Bolton.
"For the moment, four or five clubs are very interested. They come to see me every weekend, but I do not want to reveal their identities.
"My priority is to stay in England, but Spanish and Italian clubs are also following me."
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