Everyone connected with Fulham was devastated to hear news reports on Sunday evening that Papa Bouba Diop had passed away aged 42.
The midfielder was a cult hero at Craven Cottage. But while he was an intimidating presence on the pitch, he was the complete opposite off it.
A warm, kind man, his infectious personality brightened the day of teammates and staff alike at Motspur Park.
Bouba Diop first came to prominence at the 2002 World Cup when he scored the winning goal as Senegal shocked holders France in the competition opener.
Chris Coleman brought him to Fulham in the summer of 2004 and he quickly became a crowd favourite, with his uncompromising performances in the middle of the park and physical stature earning him the nickname of The Wardrobe.
In his three seasons at the Club, Bouba Diop made 84 appearances and scored nine goals. Possessing an absolute jackhammer of a right foot, his late equaliser against Manchester United at the Hammersmith End will live long in the memory.
After leaving the Whites, Bouba Diop spent time at Portsmouth – where he won the FA Cup – Birmingham City, and West Ham United.
Our thoughts and sympathies are now with Bouba’s family and friends at this terrible time.
