Diarra reassured after new injury setback

Fulham manager Martin Jol insists he remains keen to give Mahamadou Diarra a new contract despite the midfielder suffering another injury setback.

The 32-year-old, whose previous Fulham deal expired at the end of last season, has been training with the club as he recovers from a long-term problem.

Diarra twice underwent surgery on his left knee earlier this year and Jol opted not renew his contact while his fitness was still a concern.

The former Real Madrid man returned to training last month and appeared for Fulham’s reserves, but picked up a knock.

“Diarra is still in my plans but he was kicked playing for our reserves,” said Jol.

“We told him he needed to play three games to be 100% fit and then we would give him a contract, but he has had a setback first with his ankle and now with his knee.

“So the surgeon in Madrid thought it was a good idea to put him on a four-week rehab schedule again.

“We haven’t offered him a contract yet but Diarra knows if he is fit he is a very good player still.

“But if he is not fit I can’t use him and no-one can blame us for not paying him if he is not fit.”

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