Diouf was slammed for his poor form at Liverpool

The two-time African Footballer of the Year was described by former Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier as his worst signing during his time in charge of the club.

Houllier said the Senegal striker was a major disappointment who had failed to fulfil his potential since moving to the English Premiership from French club Lens.

But Stephan said Diouf was the subject of unfair criticism.

"Everyone today is jumping all over El Hadji and blaming him.

"We must not forget what a major role he has played in recent years," said Stephan on the eve of his country's World Cup qualifier in Togo at the weekend.

El Hadji is a big talent who needs support Senegal manager Guy Stephan

"He won the African Footballer of the Year award twice in a row and we have never had a player like that before.

"Only the big players like Salif Keita and Abedi Pele have been able to achieve a feat like that.

"It is not his (Diouf's) fault that his club did not have a good season. El Hadji is a big talent who needs support and a lot of encouragement."

The striker was a major flop for his country at the African Cup of Nations finals in Tunisia earlier this year.

He earned himself a three-match ban for his part in a violent outburst during the quarter-final defeat by the hosts.