By Michelle Wesson BBC Sport Online

Now a permanent fixture in the Auxerre line-up, Amdy Faye is relieved with his rapid change of fortunes.

But the Senegal midfielder came close to quitting the club.

"At the beginning of the season I was never a starter in the coach's mind. It was depressing," he told the French sports daily L'Equipe.

Despite an impressive World Cup with Senegal, reaching the quarter-finals, he was shocked to realize that he would struggle to hold down a regular first team place at Auxerre.

"That hurt me. I couldn't stay there and pretend that I liked the club while I sat on the bench."

Attracting interest from English clubs, he had serious thoughts about leaving French football.

European goals

But with his fears behind him, Faye is keen to have a good run with Auxerre in the Uefa Champions League.

"We've got to get through the first round. It's an absolute must that we win our home matches and get points away from home."

Faye is angry with commentators that attributed Senegal's World Cup success to the poor quality of football displayed at the tournament.

"I have heard comments that the standard was poor but that's a stupid thing to say. It's people who are jealous of our success that make such remarks."

"We prepared to compete in the World Cup. We didn't go just to say hello and head back home. I am happy that we clearly answered our doubters," Faye said.