| Diouf: spitting incidents |
- March 2003: Spat at Celtic fans during Celtic v Liverpool UEFA Cup quarter-final
- 7 Nov 2004: Accused of spitting at a fan during Bolton's 1-1 draw at Middlesbrough.
- 27 Nov 2004: Spat in face of Portsmouth captain Arjan de Zeeuw
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After delighting Bolton fans this season, Diouf is back to disgusting them once again. Against Portsmouth on Saturday, he was caught on camera spitting in the face of Pompey captain Arjan de Zeeuw after his late dive failed to win a penalty. Bolton fined the player a maximum two weeks’ wages, and condemned his behaviour. "The club takes great pride in its very proactive family image and yesterday's incident has left a sour taste." Diouf has since apologised. "I have let down my manager, Sam Allardyce, and team-mates. I am a role model to many thousands of fans throughout the world and my behaviour showed a lack of moral responsibility to the public who support me." | "This shouldn't happen. It is unsportsmanlike, ridiculous and cowardly. You would think after once he would have learned from it but apparently not." | | Arjan De Zeeuw |
But is saying sorry - and an FA charge of improper conduct - come close to redeeming Diouf for this vile act? As De Zeeuw put it: "I would rather someone punched me in the face." And it’s not often you can say that. Diouf hasn’t learned his lesson. Last year, he was fined £5,000 at Glasgow Sheriff Court for spitting at Celtic fans playing for Liverpool in a Uefa Cup tie. And Cleveland police are investigating claims that he spat at 'Boro fans from the bench during Bolton’s game against Middlesbrough on 7 November. Bolton manager Sam Allardyce has said he may send Diouf to a sports psychologist for his spitting problem. Does Diouf need help? Or is help wasted on Diouf?Ìý | 
