Diouf joined Bolton from Liverpool two years ago

El-Hadji Diouf believes he is in the form of his life and ready to take Bolton to new heights.

The Senegal striker is available again after suspension and anxious to face Manchester City in the Premiership on Saturday.

Diouf's re-appearance is a timely boost for manager Sam Allardyce as Kevin Davies is banned.

Bolton are lying fifth in the table after beating Aston Villa and looking to kick on.

Diouf, who has weighed in with five goals, said: "I have got my career back on track after I felt disillusioned at Liverpool.

"I am now playing the best football of my career and know I can continue to improve.

"The confidence in the camp is sky high and we believe we are capable of maintaining our positive start for the rest of the campaign.

"Our squad has limited numbers but there is no denying the quality.

"If we can stay fit and keep suspensions to a minimum, we will take some stopping.

"The Champions League is not beyond us.

"This club would take off if we could qualify but we know there's a lot of hard work to be done between now and the end of the season."

Diouf has paid credit to his manager for Bolton's place among the elite clubs.

"Sam Allardyce is like a father to all the players, " he said.

"He knows what makes you tick and brings the best out of every individual.

"He treats us like grown adults and gives us the opportunity to express ourselves on the field within the gameplan."

Allardyce may be tempted to shake up his defence against City with both Tal Ben Haim and Ricardo Gardner pushing for places in the starting line-up.