Which group will you have on Saturday?
“We already have five CAN players (Sow, Moukoudi, Neyou, Bouanga, Khazri). We have had five cases of Covid-19 to deplore and three will not be able to play against Lens. The other two were able to resume training yesterday (Wednesday). We also have some uncertainties. Hamouma is in the recovery phase but it is too early to include him in the squad. “
Are you worried that other cases of Covid will be declared?
” Unfortunately yes. It’s long for everyone, we can’t wait for it to end. “
With the CAN and the Covid, is this already a first headache to compose your team?
“The CAN (African Cup of Nations), I knew that before coming here. The Covid was hovering but I didn’t know there was going to be a new wave. I am not crying. You have to accept it and find solutions with the staff at my disposal to obtain results. That’s the puzzle. “
“We want to present a coherent recruitment at the end of January”
You’ve been here for a month. What changed ?
“The absence of renunciation and fatalism, even if it remains to be proven that one day there was. Players are impacted by a long period of no success, or very little. I hope they tell themselves that nothing is lost, even if the situation is worrying. I have involved and committed boys who respect what is asked of them. We are hopeful. “
Where are the recruits?
“Sada Thioub lacks competition but it’s already much better, it lacks almost nothing. Paul Bernardoni’s health concerns are behind him. There is also the return of Etienne (Green), which is good news. “
Where are you on the transfer window?
“We want to stick to our defined criteria because we want to present a coherent recruitment at the end of January. For now, there are still leads but nothing conclusive at the moment. “
What do you think of Lens, your opponent on Saturday?
“I admire the work that has been done. Lens deserves to play the first places. I respect this team a lot but I am not afraid of it. “