Diouf delighted with Pele accolade

The Senegalese forward was a surprise inclusion alongside Anfield colleague Michael Owen in the list to mark FIFA's centenary year, but he insists that he does not feel out of place next to the likes of Eusabio, Socratres, Maradona and Zidane.

Diouf, speaking to the club's oficial website, said: "It's a great honour for me, for Liverpool and for Senegal. I am delighted to see my name among the top players in the world.

"Was I surprised to be included in the list? Yes and no. It's a great thrill for me.

"I'm especially pleased for African football that a number of players were included. The feedback from back home has been very positive."