Why Iliman Ndiaye needs Everton more than ever as apology sent

Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye has apologised for the manner of Senegal's recent World Cup exit.

Ndiaye suffered heartbreak in FIFA's global showpiece as Senegal let a late two-goal lead slip against Belgium last Wednesday.

Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr goals either side of half-time had the African side in control of the last-32 tie in Seattle.

However, Romelu Lukaku pulled one back in the 85th minute and Youri Tielemans equalised three minutes later.

Tielemans scored a dramatic late penalty in extra time to eliminate Senegal 3-2 as the Lions of Teranga were left to rue what could have been.

Ndiaye was a regular for Senegal in the tournament and has now spoken out for the first time since last week's exit.

Iliman Ndiaye posts heartfelt Senegal message

It was not all bad for Senegal at the World Cup, given they made it out of the group stage.

They defeated Iraq 5-0 in their last group game to advance as one of the best third-placed sides.

However, this followed defeats to France and Norway, meaning they lost three of their four games in North America.

Ndiaye created some niche World Cup history, but it was ultimately a disappointing way for Senegal to crash out.

In a post to his 974,000 Instagram followers on Monday evening, the 26-year-old said: "We are aware that we have not met expectations. This shirt, its story, we had to do better.

"Thank you for your support throughout the competition. We'll come back stronger for the next periods, because for us nothing equals the pride of wearing the Senegalese jersey. Thanks to all."

Ndiaye is clearly down on the back of his World Cup experience and may now need Everton more than ever.

Ndiaye has perfect chance to draw line under World Cup disappointment

Ndiaye scored one goal and assisted two more at the World Cup - a more than positive return, individually speaking.

The former Marseille ace can also be pleased enough with his return of six goals and three assists in the Premier League last season.

However, there was a serious drop-off in the second half of the campaign.

That coincides with Everton also falling off the pace as they missed out on a spot in Europe.

Ndiaye will now have another couple of weeks off before returning to Everton, hopefully with the mentality of someone ready to prove a point.