Stoke star Mame Biram Diouf grateful for support following tragic death of his motherSTOKE striker Mame Biram Diouf has expressed his thanks for the support he has received following the death of his mother in a human stampede. By Express Sport 00:03, Thu, Dec 17, 2015 | UPDATED: 00:10, Thu, Dec 17, 2015 Link copied Bookmark GETTYStoke awarded Diouf compassionate leave following the death of his motherShe was killed in September after being caught up in a stampede during the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.Diouf was granted compassionate leave by Stoke when the news emerged and he has started only one game since."It was long, long, long, long days, but now I am getting back and trying to stay together with the family," he said."Now I am really fully focused. It has been a long time being away, not away, but away in the head. But now I am focused on football. "All the team has been really supporting and helping me a lot and the gaffer [Mark Hughes], everyone."They were there when it was needed and I want to say thank you to all the fans too."Express Sport Related articles West Ham form at Boleyn Ground is no concern for Slaven Bilic... Stoke to pounce on Bundesliga striker as Liverpool go cold on deal SUBSCRIBE Invalid emailWe use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy