Interview

Favre: "It is never impossible..."

Following the clash against Rennes (2-2), Lucien Favre believed that the draw was a fair result given the physical aspects of the game. Even though he was disappointed with the start of the game from his side, the Nice coach underlined the strength of character shown to get back into a game against a quality opponent.

Coach, can we take it that this is a good point for the Gym ?
Yes, I think. They pressed us like lemons in the first-half. As I said, Rennes are a team that are beginning to take shape. They have found their system in a  4-4-2. They press extremely high  and are very difficult break down. Between the defensive and attacking lines, that are their first line of defence, there is no space. We needed to plays simply, directly over the defence. For the first goal, we weren’t ready to defend at 100%. I am talking about all of the team.

How did you players get out of this situation?
At half-time, we said to ourselves that nothing is impossible. We knew that we needed one goal to get us back on track. That’s what we did. It is very goof to get back to 2-2. Now, we can’t afford to start a game like we did. At the end, both teams were close to getting a goal. I think it is a good point today. In terms of the league, I am not worried about other clubs. I only want my team to do as well as possible. Psychologically, it was very important to get back into this game, We were able to rely on the players that came on, who were good. (Donis, Obbadi et Le Marchand).

Alassane Plea left the pitch injured. Can you give us an update?
His knee moved. But I can’t tell you any more. He needs to have some tests.

Dalbert was also replaced with 15 minutes to go… 
He is a player that gives his all, runs a lot and at times, takes hits. He felt something but he really wanted to finish the game. But we needed him to come off, because if it went, there was a risk that his season could have been over.