Diakite slams depression reports

Diakite returned home to France nearly two weeks ago and it was suggested that his absence was due to his battle with depression.

However, the 23-year-old Mali international had been granted compassionate leave to deal with a delicate personal matter and has already resumed training with QPR.

"Frankly, I do not understand why some people start rumours like that," Diakite told RMC Sport.

"I was a bit tired in the last few days and my club allowed me to spend three days in Paris. But I am not depressed.

"My club are my employers and I was in contact with them every day.

"All of a sudden I wake up this morning, open the newspapers and learn that someone has said that I am depressed. This is ridiculous and disappointing.

"I am currently in London and I have been to training, so this is amazing.

"It saddens me because I received calls from concerned members of my family.

"Fortunately I am a strong character as this could have had serious consequences for someone who is weak.

"I want to assure my friends and fans of QPR that I will be at training on Monday with the rest of the group and all is well."

Diakite played in the opening two matches of the season, but missed last weekend's 3-1 defeat by Manchester City.