Reactions after Lille - Rennes

Jorge Sampaoli 
« It was a balanced match. We put a lot of work into our defensive organisation so that we could play this very good Lille team, which is well established and strong in the league and in the Champions League. We wanted to avoid being disorganised, but we took that goal and then we lacked attacking flair.

So far we've had very little time to work. We need time to be dangerous in the penalty area. We had to deal with Alidu's injury and I thought the team continued to be consistent in neutralising Lille. We just need time to improve.

SRFC aren't used to this situation, but I thought we played a competitive game and I think we were on a par with this big team. This match is a good starting point, but we'll need time to get some answers and gain more control, particularly in attack.

Jordan James brought energy and personality to the game, and he was able to pick the ball up and create chances. It's a good start and he's done a good job.

What about Alidu Seidu? I can't diagnose him, we'll be doing some tests tomorrow.»

 

Steve Mandanda 
« We're in a very complicated situation. We know that things aren't going to improve overnight. Especially as we had the internationals back late on Thursday or Friday at the latest. The coach has done a lot of work and there's been some improvement, particularly in terms of organisation, we've been a bit more solid and we've conceded fewer chances. Now we know we have to improve in a number of areas. We have no choice but to hang in there and keep working, because we can't be satisfied with this result. We're aware that we need to work. There's quality in this group, and we have to do better because this is a club that deserves to be higher up. »

 

Amine Gouiri 
« We were more solid than usual. We didn't have many clear-cut chances, but it was a shame to get that goal just before half-time. A new coach has arrived and we can't fix everything in a week. A lot of the players were on international duty this week. There were some good things, though, and we're going to keep working. We're aware of the situation and we're going to pick ourselves up. »