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Le Marchand: "The coach has been able to convince me"

The second most used defender in the squad*, with 23 appearances in L1, Maxime Le Marchand has featured in a new position in recent weeks. Moved out to the left full-back position, the former Rennes man has put in strong performances and even picked up his first assist, last Sunday against his former side (1-1). "They were kind, because I wouldn't have counted it. It was him (Plea) who did it all himself" smiled tall Max', before talking further about his new role.  

You seem to be enjoying the full back position...  

My position is still centre back, I really like playing in the middle. But I am progressing more and more in the full back position. I still have the desire to progress and to evolve on the left, I have a lot of points to work on. The runs, the anticipation etc. aren't the same: it enriches my versatility as a footballer. When I watch a match, I now no longer focus just on the left centre back, I also look at the left back.  

Would you have imagined becoming effective in this position? 

I had already played on the left at Le Havre. I knew that I could play there but from that to playing there over for a period of time... I am quite surprised. Today, I am rediscovering this position thanks to the coach. He was able to convince me, and showed me how to position myself and to act on the field. It took a bit of time, but I am very happy because it allows me to progress. 

"To begin with, I was reticent" 

How was he able to convince you?  

There were several matches where he said to me: "Do you want to play on the left?" And I said to him that I was comfortable in the middle. He was able to convince me because to begin with, I was reticent. He was also able to listen to me and to wait until I felt comfortable. It was against Nantes, where we were missing several players. I gave the coach my agreement because I would do anything to help the team. It went well (1-2 victory). I saw that I could help the side by playing on the left, and we have continued in that way. It came from a common agreement.  

*Dante (27 matches) is the only member of the Nice defence to have played more games for Lucien Favre in the league this season.