Diouf: Cantona my role model
Bolton's El Hadji Diouf is using Eric Cantona as his role model.
Bolton's El Hadji Diouf is using Eric Cantona as his role model as he looks to overcome disciplinary problems to become a force in the English game.Cantona was hit with an eight month ban after an infamous 'kung fu' kick on a Crystal Palace fan, but remains a fondly remembered member of the Premiership hall of fame.
Diouf wants to put his problems behind him, as he seeks a permanent move to Bolton, so that the immense talent that once made him African Footballer of the Year can become the thing that he is remembered for.
"I hope to follow the example set by Eric Cantona," said Diouf.
"If Cantona can come to England, come through some of the mistakes that he made early in his career and win over the fans, then so can I.
"Cantona was a player that I respected. He was someone who also made mistakes but he is still remembered with great respect by supporters.
"That is now my aim. I don't want to leave England branded as a trouble-maker.
"There were times when it looked certain that Cantona's career could not survive. But he was a man of character and he was able to get through it and win respect.
"He is the role model I now have to use.
"I have a lot of regrets about some of the things that I have done.
"Maybe it is too late for me. I hope not because I will not give up on trying to be successful in England and becoming a player the fans respect."
