Former Liverpool and Bolton Wanderers striker El Hadji Diouf is backing Sam Allardyce for success at Everton.

The Senegalese international hit back at critics of Allardyce's perceived negative approach.

Diouf said: "If Sam goes there they'll eventually reach the Champions League.

"He is a man who with zero can be the best. They need a character.

"With Bolton we played champagne football with Hierro, Campo, Okocha and myself."

Allardyce will pocket £100,000 per week after being tasked with saving the Toffees.