Stoke returnee Diao delighted with African, France scouting roles

Salif Diao is delighted with his return to Stoke City.

He remains a footballer first and foremost, he insists, but when he is injured or out of favour he will be expected to devote time to spreading the gospel of Stoke City in France and Africa to try to help recruitment.

"I'm delighted and happy to be back at home," Diao told The Sentinel.

"I now have a very high responsibility and it shows the trust the club has in me and I thank them.

"I'm very proud to be an ambassador in France and Africa, talking about Stoke City and making Stoke City known around the world and helping in the recruitment of players."

The ambassadorial role should certainly come naturally to a man possessing both popularity and respect among his peers abroad, while his raft of contacts will open far more doors than they shut.

It's a role he had long fancied, he says, but maybe a little later in his career.

"The offer was very surprising for me," he said, "as I thought I would get involved in coaching and recruitment in two or three years time, so that's why it was a bit of a shock for me.

"I will represent Stoke on the pitch and if for whatever reason I'm not in the squad, then I have another job."

 
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