After a long absence brought about by a severly twisted knee, Loris Arnaud returned to competition last weekend against Rouen in the CFA. A good opportunity to see how the Parisian striker is doing.

Loris, after a six-month absence, how was it getting back into action against Rouen (CFA)?
“By agreement with the medical staff, I only played one half. For the first 15 minutes I was a bit hesitant, I was apprehensive about a few things. In terms of getting a feel for the game, it was a bit difficult but as far as my knee is concerned, everything went well.”

How have the last few months of your recovery been?
“This was my first big injury as a professional player. Having to wear a cast for a long time wasn’t easy because it meant I had to stay at home most of the time for the first few weeks. Still, lots of people helped me out and were there for me: my family, but also my teammates, who asked after me regularly. I was also looked after really well by the club doctor and physiotherapists.”

How do you see the end of the season, from a personal point of view but also from a team perspective?
“My principal objective is to get as much game time under my belt as I can so I can have the best possible start with the team next season. As for the team as a whole, they need to stay on the course they’re on at the moment. They’re having a really good season, and it would be excellent to finish with a strong series of results to cap off the enormous effort they’ve put in so far this season.”

Do you think you can make it back to the first team before the end of the season?
“That’s the coach’s decision, but I don’t imagine I’ll be back in the first team in the short term. A few more matches in the CFA will help me get my rhythm back. But if the coach calls for me right now, I’ll step up! As for our next match, Rennes are a good side, a top-six team. But we’re on a good dynamic now and we’ll be playing at home. It’s up to us to do what it takes to get the three points.”