Coleman to keep wanted pair

Wednesday 30 November, 2005

Fulham boss Chris Coleman is adamant that Papa Bouba Diop and Steed Malbranque will not be leaving West London.

Former Lens midfielder Diop and former Lyon ace Malbranque have been Fulham’s top performers this term and Coleman says he cannot afford to lose either player.

“I know there are plenty of clubs wanting to sign them in the next transfer window but we will fight to keep our best players,” he said.

“Of course, people want them and January will be a tough time for us. I'm reading that Steed and Papa are going here, there and everywhere and there is nothing I can do about that.

“But we’re adamant we don't want to lose our best players. And that's something myself, the chairman and the directors are all agreed upon.

“Obviously, I can't sit here and say we will definitely keep them but we have agreed to do all we can and I wouldn't put a price on them.”