Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has revealed who his footballing hero was as a child.
The 31-year-old grew up in France but represents Gabon at international level for whom he has scored 20 goals in 51 appearances.
He is immensely proud of his African heritage and sports a tattoo of the continent on his back. In a tweet Aubameyang once described Africa as “my inspiration, my identity, my family, my home!!”
He has now revealed that these strong ties date back to his childhood when he was inspired by the 2002 Senegal World Cup team and their star man El-Hadji Diouf.
The former Liverpool and Bolton man was a key player for the Lions as they reached the quarter finals, beating holders France along the way.
“I got to know the Senegalese national team thanks to El Hadji Diouf, who was playing in Lens at the time and who made us dream,” he told Senegalese paper Stades as per WiwSport.
“I loved El Hadji Diouf so much, that in 2002, I coloured my hair with white powder, my friends did the same.
“After each Lions match at the 2002 World Cup, we danced, sang my friends and I.”
Aubameyang has now returned to London after a turbulent time on international duty with Gabon.
The 31-year-old posted on social media about he and his teammates having to sleep on the floor of the Banjul International Airport after they were denied entry into Gambia for their AFCON qualifying match.
Arsenal were said to be furious about the situation, although Mikel Arteta played this down during his press conference on Friday.
“Obviously it was a shock to see the squad sleeping like that," he said.
"I obviously believe everyone is trying to do their best. Sometimes unpredictable things happen and it was an experience.
“I'm sure for many months and years you haven't slept on the floor. Make sure when you're on the bed you make sure you know how lucky you are. I hope next time it doesn't happen.”
Despite the ordeal he is still expected to start for Arsenal in the Premier League against Leeds on Sunday.
