Lomana LuaLua

Lomana Tresor LuaLua is a football (soccer) player from the Democratic Republic of Congo, born in 1980. He currently plays in England for Portsmouth F.C.

LuaLua began his career with Colchester United F.C. in the 1998/99 season. He went on to score 15 goals in just 37 League starts for the club. After two seasons at the club, his stunning performances attracted the attention of several Premiership clubs, and Newcastle United F.C. swooped to sign him for the 2000/01 season at a cost of £2.5 million.

LuaLua took some time to settle for his new club after netting twice in the club's InterToto Cup campaign. His first Premiership goals would not come until April 2002, but he then quickly rediscovered his form.

He opened his account in a 3-2 victory at Derby County - LuaLua would score the injury time winner - and finished the season with three goals in five games. His performances for the club earned him a regular place in the Democratic Republic of Congo national football team, and he was made captain for the 2004 African Nations Cup. However in the match against the hosts Tunisia he was sent off. His country went on to lose and were eliminated.

On his return from the competition competition for a first team place meant he joined Portsmouth on loan for the second half of the season.

LuaLua scored on his Pompey debut against Tottenham Hotspur F.C., and then in his third game scored an 89th minute equaliser against parent club Newcastle at Fratton Park.

The player scored four goals in ten starts for Pompey as they finished 13th in their debut season in the Premiership. Manager Harry Redknapp was impressed enough with LuaLua's performances that when his loan spell ended following the 2003/04 season he signed him permanantly at a cost of £? million.