Coleman in Diop warning
10 Nov 2006 - 08:57:51
Fulham boss Chris Coleman has warned Papa Bouba Diop that he faces a fight to reclaim his starting place.
The 28-year-old has been at loggerheads with Coleman this season over his international commitments with Senegal and, after sitting out the last few weeks with a thigh strain, is expected to be on the bench for Saturday's trip to Portsmouth.
"In his absence the team have won and people have done well in his position," admitted Coleman.
"Bouba not only has to get back in the team, but when he does it's no longer the case he can get away with playing at 70 per cent if he's carrying an injury.
"I don't want to stop him playing for Senegal but when he goes to some of the friendly games to the back of beyond, the last six times he's been away four times he's come back and got injured.
"His performances have dropped so that has to be addressed because he has to concentrate on Fulham as well.
"I've addressed that with him and he's fully committed to us, he knows that and he wants to concentrate on Fulham."