‘I’m ready to give everything’ – El Hadji Malick Diouf makes Brentford

El Hadji Malick Diouf has promised to give everything for Brentford after completing his move from West Ham United, declaring his excitement at beginning a new chapter with the Premier League club.

The Senegal international has signed a five-year contract with Brentford, with the club holding an option to extend the deal by another year.

Speaking in his first interview after completing the transfer, the 21-year-old left-back expressed his delight at joining the Bees and insisted he is eager to make an immediate impression.

“I’m really happy, really happy to be here at this amazing club,” Diouf said. “I was looking forward to it. Now I’m here and I’m ready to give everything.”

His arrival marks the next stage of a promising career for the Senegalese defender, who has quickly established himself at international level and now has the opportunity to continue his development in a new Premier League environment.

Andrews’ plan convinced Diouf

Diouf revealed that discussions with Brentford head coach Keith Andrews and members of the club’s staff were crucial in convincing him that the move was the right step for his career.

The defender was particularly impressed by the development plan presented to him and believes Brentford can provide the environment required to take his game to another level.

“I think they gave me a good plan,” he continued. “I spoke with the manager and he gave me a good plan for how I can develop, so I think it’s a good place for me to be.

“They’ve seen things in me that maybe I didn’t see myself. They’re looking forward to helping me and I’m really happy with the plan. I’m looking forward to continuing my progression.”

The confidence shown in his potential appears to have strengthened Diouf’s belief that Brentford is the ideal club for the next phase of his career.

Diouf sees himself fitting Brentford style

The Senegalese defender is also arriving at Brentford with a clear understanding of the football he will be expected to play.

Diouf followed the club closely last season and identified the athleticism within the squad as one of the reasons he believes he can settle quickly.

“I watched them a lot last season,” he said. “The team is very athletic and I have that profile as well, so I think I can adapt well to the team.”

His pace, physical qualities and attacking ability from the left are expected to complement Brentford’s style, while the player himself is confident his attributes will allow him to integrate into Andrews’ plans.

Senegal star targets big things

Beyond his footballing development, Diouf is keen to establish a strong bond with Brentford’s supporters and believes their relationship with the team can play a major role in his adaptation.

“They have a really good connection with the players,” he said.

“I think that’s really important when you’re a player, to have a good connection with your fans.

“They can help you a lot and give you a lot of confidence as a player. I want that and I’m really excited to meet them.”

Diouf has already set his sights high for his time in west London, making it clear that he wants to play a significant role in Brentford’s ambitions.

“Why not win the league?” he said when asked about his targets.

“I want to have a big role here. I think you have to be patient and try to grow.”

For Diouf, the immediate priority will be adapting to his new surroundings, earning his place and continuing his development, but his early message to Brentford is unmistakable: he has arrived with ambition and is ready to give everything.