Say what you want about Leeds United manager Steve Evans (and many have) but I’d love to know what he did to Toumani Diagouraga. Toums broke the hearts of Brentford fans when he signed for the Elland Road side last week. He was a hero on the pitch and a cult legend off it. Specifically because of his goals. Or lack of.
“Toumani scores, we’re on the pitch” went the song. Week after week after week.
“Shooooot” went the ground whenever the long legged midfielder picked up the ball anywhere within 40 yards of the opposition goal, such was our desire to see him find the back of the net.
![image[3]](https://nickbruzonslastword.files.wordpress.com/2016/01/image3.jpg?w=564&h=446)
Toumani’s last Griffin Park appearance was for Leeds on Tuesday
Toumani has started a new chapter in his career at Leeds United and left Griffin Park with nothing but best wishes from everybody associated with our club. Then yesterday, at around 3.40pm, it all went a bit bonkers.
With Brentford having a day off given our lack of involvement in the FA Cup, the normally close-knit Bees family was scattered. Rather than huddled on the terrace and in the stands we were out shopping, drinking, relaxing at home or even at another game. As such, we had to rely on other means to enjoy the moment together and this is where social media came to the fore.
If ever a Twitter update brought an unexpected smile to the face it was this one. With Leeds playing at Bolton Wanderers, it seemed Toumani had done the unthinkable and scored a goal.
Just 39 minutes into his full debut!
That had to be a typo. Surely? But no, my timeline then went into meltdown. Even Harlee Dean got in on the act.
Never have I seen such an outpouring of love, affection and all round good vibes directed towards another team’s player. Not to mention a fair share of good-natured banter, too.
Toums – congratulations.
Here’s the best of how Twitter reacted. And, for me (Clive), Daniel Giltinane wins it…
All good humour and, I’m sure you’ll agree, nothing but the best wishes towards our former number 20. With Alan Judge reportedly telling sources he’s going nowhere this transfer window, Brentford fans have been left very happy without even playing a game.
For now, though, we’ll leave the Last Word to the man of the moment.
Nice one Toums.
Nick Bruzon