Adams fears Diarra exit

Pompey assistant boss accepts midfielder could leave

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 19th May 2008

Lassana Diarra Portsmouth January 2008

Diarra: Impressive against Cardiff

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Tony Adams has admitted that Portsmouth need to match the ambition of midfielder Lassana Diarra.

The Frenchman has produced a series of impressive displays since joining Pompey from Arsenal in the January transfer window.

He earned rave reviews again for his performance in the FA Cup final on Saturday as Harry Redknapp's side defeated Cardiff 1-0.

Portsmouth will play in the Uefa Cup next season but assistant manager Adams accepts there could be interest in Diarra.

"If he keeps playing like that, we might lose him," Adams acknowledged.

"Portsmouth need to come up to his standards."

Star of the summer

Diarra is likely to attract more attention if he can continue his good form at Euro 2008.

He has been included in France's initial squad and team-mate Niko Kranjcar is tipping him to shine.

"He can be one of the stars this summer, of course he can. He can do everything," said Kranjcar.

Pedro Mendes added: "Lassana is a really, really good player and it is great to have someone like him in the squad. He's young so he will get even better.

"He could be a star of the European Championships, he's a fantastic player and deserves to play."