A DIAME’S FAMILY VALUES

Inspiration behind Mo’s return to form for Toon is his mother and brothers

MO DIAME has revealed the family motivation behind his resurgent form.

The Newcastle midfielder has been outstanding since winning his place back in December and has contributed to a solid run which included five wins.

Diame has finally shown what he is capable of after a season and a half on Tyneside.

The Senegal international drove himself through tough times and poor performances because he wants to keep providing for his family and siblings.

His father, Adama, died when Mo was 13. He said: “When he passed away I thought of the future and what my mother was doing to look after us.

“She was bringing in the money. You have to realise you become a man with responsibility. I was young, and my sister and brother too. When I saw my little brother and my mum by herself, it was difficult, a tough moment.

“For five months I lost my football – I wasn’t the same player. I said I had to do it for him. I am proud to secure the best life for my family.

“Before every single game, I have this moment when I think about him. Then after, I’ll play my game, and that’s it. It’s become something.”

Of his Newcastle form, which was average in the Championship promotion campaign, he said: “I was the first one who knew I wasn’t delivering, that I wasn’t playing my best football. There are hard moments when you’re not at your best. I’m 30 now but I still feel I’ve no problems physically.

“I came back from pre-season really focused and ready for everything.”

But Diame (scoring against West Ham, below) was not a regular until Christmas. He added: “As a footballer the important thing is to be playing. Playing changes a lot in your life, it makes you happy.”

He bullied the Southampton midfield last weekend, making key tackles and interceptions. He said: “When I play my best it feels like nothing can touch you.

“That’s the kind of feeling you have to continue game after game.

“We have had two very big wins at St James’ Park in the last couple of games but we need to make sure we keep going.

“Even when it was harder I knew I could give more to this team. I know the player I am.”

MO MAKES IT HIS SHOW Diame has helped to point Newcastle in the right direction since claiming back his slot