“Good! We often get the chance to do a big physical workout and today was the day. Then we finished off with a bit of defence tactics work and a few games. It all went well and we worked hard.” What happened against Monaco?
“In the first half, we weren’t on the ball defensively. Monaco created far too many chances. We started the second half better. We attacked well which allowed us to play further up the pitch. That’s when we began to think we could get more than just a draw. Unfortunately, in going all out for the win, we left ourselves open at the back. For the first goal, we weren’t organised and they got in behind us. It’s a real shame because we really felt the win was ours for the taking. We need to win back those points as soon as possible and that means beating Lyon and starting a new undefeated run.”
On Sunday, PSG hosts Lyon for the first big game at the Parc des Princes this season. Are you counting on the home support?
“It’s always an advantage to play at home. This season it’s all gone pretty well at home. The fans are 100 per cent behind us and that’s a great help. We know it won’t be easy but we need to win back the points we lost against Monaco.” Do you prepare differently for a match when you’ve got Lisandro Lopez or Bafé Gomis as you opposition?
“No. We know it’s going to be tough, but we prepare for every match as well as we can. The other teams in Ligue 1 also have good strikers – you can’t afford to take anyone lightly. Lyon are a class side so we just have to be as focused and vigilant as possible.”
Last year was a difficult one for you with little playing time. What convinced you to stay?
“I really appreciated what the coach had to say to me when he arrived. It changed the situation I felt like I might be dealt a new hand. So I decided to stay on. Only time will tell if I was right or wrong, but the coach’s discourse pleased me and I signed up straight away. I want to be a part of his plans.” What can we wish for you this season?
“To play as many games as possible and have a better season than the last one, that was a real catastrophe for me. But know I’m back to my best form which I lost when I came here. Now I feel capable of training well and playing well. I don’t have any excuses now and I’m going to give it everything.”
