Diouf apologises for spitting at de Zeeuw

BOLTON striker El-Hadji Diouf last night admitted he had shown a “lack of moral responsibility” and issued an apology after being fined two weeks’ wages for spitting at Portsmouth captain Arjan de Zeeuw.

Television cameras spotted the Senegalese international’s act during the second-half of Pompey’s 1-0 win over Bolton at the Reebok Stadium on Saturday.

Diouf could now find himself in trouble with the FA.

“I deeply regret my actions and wish to publicly apologise to Arjan De Zeeuw and Portsmouth Football Club,” said Diouf.

“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.

“I am deeply sorry and embarrassed about the incident.”

De Zeeuw complained to referee Steve Dunn at the end of the game.

Bolton imposed a fine of two weeks’ wages - the maximum allowed - on the player who joined them in the summer on a season-long loan from Liverpool.

Diouf was condemned by Bolton chairman Phil Gartside and boss Sam Allardyce for his actions.

A combined statement from the two said: “The club does not tolerate such behaviour from its players and we had no alternative but to evoke the maximum fine against El-Hadji Diouf.”

“We do not condone the actions taken by the player and for that he has been severely punished.”

The FA may be concerned that Diouf has a past record of spitting during matches. While at Liverpool he was fined £5,000 by the Glasgow Sheriff Court for spitting at a Celtic fan in a UEFA Cup game.

Cleveland police also launched an investigation earlier this month after Diouf was accused of spitting at a Middlesbrough fan.