Everton stars Idrissa Gueye and Iliman Ndiaye are presumably still baffled by the decision to strip Senegal of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) have now decided to retrospectively award Morocco a 3-0 win in the AFCON final, which took place over two months ago, due to the fact Senegal players walked off the field in protest against the officiating for 17 minutes before returning and going on to seal a 1-0 win.
Gueye has already released a statement on the matter – and after Everton backed The Lions of Teranga on Instagram, former West Brom star Mbaye Diagne reached out to thank the Toffees.
What changes would you make? 🤔
Everton's predicted starting line-up against Chelsea.
Mbaye Diagne appreciative of Everton’s support for Senegal
The Amed SK No.45 – who can boast almost four million followers on Instagram – has previously played seven games alongside Gueye, and now looks to have a soft spot for the Toffees.
After Everton posted a photo of Ndiaye and Gueye celebrating the AFCON victory at Finch Farm in response to the news, Diagne commented “thanks” while also adding a blue heart emoji.
It sparked a wave of comments from Senegalese fans across Instagram, who have now potentially adopted Everton as a second club after the Toffees clearly revealed whose corner they are in.
MORE EVERTON STORIES
Senegal are set to lodge an appeal against the verdict – which is a frankly ridiculous decision, in all honesty – so there remains hope that Gueye and Ndiaye can keep their medals.
The pair were also handed bespoke special recognition awards by the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) after winning AFCON – so there is a fight to keep those pieces of silverware too.
If Everton are able to have any impact in helping Senegal reverse the decision, it is sure to endear the club to Ndiaye and Gueye even more.
How much would it take for Everton to accept a bid for Iliman Ndiaye? 💷
David Moyes said every player has his price… 😫
Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye playing in the Carabao Cup and in the Premier League.
Credit: Getty Images/Clive Mason/Chris Brunskill/Fantasista.
With Manchester United keen on Ndiaye this summer – as reports suggest Arsenal are lurking too – a strengthened relationship between Everton and the Senegal international would be very timely indeed.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Everton content each week direct to your mailbox