FRENCHMAN Farid Diaf says he is at Preston to win things - and believes PNE are just as entertaining to watch as Manchester United!

Just 48 hours before the start of the season, Diaf - described as a 'breath of fresh air' by boss David Moyes - damaged his groin in a freak training accident, rendering him injured for all of his three-month contract.

However, the impression he had made on the Deepdale top brass in pre-season should ensure his contract is renewed. He's now back in Britain, raring to fight for a first team place after coming through 90 minutes of action in the reserves last week.

He said: "I can't wait to perform in front of the fans here, because PNE is such an excellent club. The ability of the players is tremendous, as are the fans. "The standard of English football is higher than in France and that is what I am looking forward to. Performing in front of so many fans will be great."

Despite playing at the highest level for Toulouse, Diaf says nothing has impressed him as much as the talent on offer at Deepdale, especially powerhouse Sean Gregan.

He said: "This is a very good squad and the manager is one of the best I have worked with. I understand him and he explains everything so clearly.

"I think we play a lot like Manchester United and we are entertaining as well. Credit to the coach for that."

The left-sided midfielder will find out for definite later this month if his contract will be renewed. He is hoping to stay on - even though it is unlikely he will get to play against David Ginola again.

And off the field, he is feeling quite at home too. He added: "I haven't had much time to see Preston yet but I have been to Wall St and Yates's. People here seem to know how to enjoy themselves."

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