Franck Haise : « It’s a real pleasure to be here tonight »

The satisfaction of three points

“We’ve achieved our goal of qualifying for Europe. A lot can still happen in a week’s time – finishing 3rd, 4th, 5th or 6th isn’t the same thing – but with this squad, which has been on this journey together since the start of the season, it’s a real joy to be here tonight and to have one last big match to play at the Vélodrome.”

The turnaround

“I would have liked us to have been more clinical in that excellent first half and to have scored at least one goal. Things turned out differently. We went behind due to one of our rare mistakes, but the team turned it around by scoring two goals in 70 seconds. It’s a pretty crazy scenario, but that’s the beauty of football.”

A victory of determination

“To be trailing like that was unlikely given how we were playing. It took a few minutes to take that blow on the chin. They came back at them, and those who came on made a contribution. That’s the quality of a squad that has forged an identity throughout the season.”

A tremendous effort

“And at the same time, there was a lot of quality in our play. We needed energy against PFC, who showed once again tonight that they’re a tough side to break down and who concede very few counter-attacks. Just as I’ve seen over the past three months since I’ve been with the squad, I’ve seen some great attitudes.”

Third and fourth place still within reach

“The good thing is that we’re guaranteed a European spot, but we’re going to go into it with ambition, under a lot of pressure – though that’s only on us, mind you. It’s great to have these matches to play. I’ll be honest, three months ago I didn’t think we’d be in a position to be fighting for third place. It’s going to be a good week to prepare for.”

Estéban Lepaul reaches the 20-goal mark

“I’ll say it again, he’s a very complete striker, who obviously still has room for improvement but who is already capable of scoring a string of fine goals and providing a few assists as well. 20 goals in Ligue 1 is no mean feat. All the work he puts in to break free from his marker, in using the right spaces and in defence… he’s a very complete striker.”