Diarra inspired by roots

Lassana Diarra says he found strength from his African roots to help him continue at Chelsea.

The 22-year-old, who has just earned his first call-up to the French national side for the forthcoming Euro 2008 qualifier in Lithuania and a friendly against Austria, was set to go out on loan from the Premiership champions in November and at the beginning of the year after having limited first-team opportunities at the club.

But due to Chelsea's defensive injury problems, Diarra remained at the London side and has since featured in the defence in the Premiership, the UEFA Champions League and the Carling Cup final victory over Arsenal.

Diarra insists that he has now developed a good relationship with coach Jose Mourinho, which has made him more settled.

"When I was younger, the education centres of Nantes and Le Mans didn't want me. I even stopped playing for a year and a half," Diarra said.

"I don't fear hardship. I have always known what I want and I found strength in my African origins.

"My parents didn't have an easy life, neither did I, but they have always helped me.

"Last year the officials didn't want me to leave. Now I am happy that the situation is better. The cup final was good for me to have time on the pitch.

"Now in a way I am Mourinho's favourite and he has told me that my bad situation will be over."