PLAYER SPOTLIGHT: Idrissa Gueye - We will make Senegalese people proud at 2018 World Cup

Idrissa Gueye

Thursday Nov 30, 2017. 10:00

The Everton FC midfielder has reflected on Senegal's successful 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.

His club has struggled in the English Premier League (EPL) this season which has resulted in the departure of coach Ronald Koeman, who has since been replaced by Sam Allardyce.

Gueye, who remains one of the most important players for Everton, has at least enjoyed the escapism of helping Senegal qualify for the World Cup.

The holding midfielder was 12 when Senegal first reached the tournament in South Korea and Japan in 2002.

In those days Gueye was playing bare foot on sandy roads with rocks for goalposts.

"I was in my village as a boy at that time and when Senegal score everyone is going out and celebrating," Gueye told Daily Mail.

"I will never forget this moment – it was the first time Senegal was at the World Cup.

"Now it's the second time we have qualified and hopefully we make the people of Senegal proud."

Gueye, who is a key player for Senegal, played eight games during their 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.

The 28-year-old helped Everton beat West Ham United 4-0 in an EPL match on Wednesday.

He played the entire match which was played at the iconic Goodison Park.