Makelele: ‘Give the maximum’

Claude Makelele showed just how much Sunday’s match against Monaco means, especially now that he’ll be catching up with his former Chelsea teammate Eidur Gudjohnsen.

Claude, you’re pleased to be back in action after a two week break?
“Yes, of course. We had two weeks in which we could get down to work and prepare for the trip to Monaco. It’s good to get back to the competition. We’re perhaps the favourites, in terms of the standings, but it’s important to respect our opponent and give it the absolute maximum to get the points on the road.”

Are you looking forward to taking on a couple of big clubs in Monaco and Lyon?
“Not especially. We take each match as it comes. Everything went well against Lille and now it’s time for Monaco. Then it will be time for Lyon, Bordeaux, Marseille… You have to focus on the team that aren’t in the title race. That’s where you need to take a maximum number of points to finish in the top five.”

What do you think about Monaco signing Eidur Gudjohnsen?
“Great players arriving in France raises the standard of the league. I played with Gudjohnsen at Chelsea. He’s a great player who will bring a lot to Monaco. He’s especially dangerous in front of goal and with the final pass. Eidur has a lot of experience and has played in some big clubs. He’s a player to keep an eye on. He’s a competitor who always gives it everything for each club he’s played for. He could become a real leader of this Monaco side.”

How do you feel physically?
“I’m feeling great. I had a good preseason which is something I haven’t had for a few years now. I’m happy because I needed that. I wanted to prepare the best possible way for the start of the season and I have no regrets about staying on for another year.”

What do you think about the injury to Mevlut Erding and the return of Guillaume Hoarau?
“It’s not a problem because we’ll play the same system. They’re not the same player, but we’ll adapt. I don’t think there will be big differences. Mevlut is missing on Sunday, Guillaume will replace him. Guillaume needs to play and to earn his place in the starting line-up. He’s very professional and very motivated. Thanks to his desire to succeed, he will be a real boost.”