Stoke City FC

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• Manager:Tony Pulis

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Diao relishes midfield role

23 Feb 2010 - 08:15:24

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Stoke City midfielder Salif Diao is content with his role as a midfield enforcer for Tony Pulis' side.

The 33-year-old Senegal international has come under fire from some sections of the Potters faithful, but he responded with his first goal in more than seven years in the 2-1 win at Portsmouth at the weekend.

That strike was followed by a fingers-on-lips gesture towards the visiting fans at Fratton Park, although Diao was quick to point out that he is happy with the support he receives, along with the rest of his team-mates.

He told The Sentinel: "Lately, I have had some criticism. If I miss a pass I get moaned at, so it was just a message.

"But it was a great feeling to score for them, because the fans never let the team down. Even when we have been losing, they have always been behind the team."

Of his role as a midfield destroyer, Diao added: "It is a dirty job, but I like doing it. I like putting the tackles in.

"My team-mates are always teasing me, but for me every clean sheet is a goal."