The French tactician believes that Les Verts are high on confidence and can win the upcoming Rhone derby against league leaders, Olympique Lyonnais
Christophe Galtier is optimist prior to the fixture against regional rivals, http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Olympique-Lyonnais-c40130, who also happen to be at the top of Ligue 1. AS Saint-Etienne have a streak of ten undefeated league games alone, making the Frenchman confident ahead of the
Rhone derby.
The coach has praised AS Saint-Etienne for their resolute performances this season, and believes that the team can continue their current form. Galtier was eager regarding the Rhone derby, and said that he does not fear the league leaders. The Frenchman
thinks that winning a game against Lyon would give his team the extra amount of confidence. He explained:
“When you beat one of the big teams in the league, something we didn't do last season, it gives you confidence.”
The French tactician believes that Les Verts have the ability to perform well no matter what the circumstances are. The coach went on to emphasize that the team has improved, compared to last season. Galtier said:
"We know that we can go in front and keep hold of our lead. We know we can come from behind and win. Those are things that we didn't have last season and do now."
Despite Galtier’s optimism, his side would have a hard time against Les Gones. St Etienne have not been able to defeat Remi Garde's side for the last 13 meetings at the Stade Geoffroy-Giuchard. Moreover, Les Verts lost all three of their fixtures with Olympique
Lyonnais last year.
However, the boss feels that his team can undo the past, and insists that it would be a thrilling encounter between the two sides. The 46-year-old took the blame for the disappointing losses against Lyon last season, but insisted that the situation has changed.
The French tactician said:
“We had three derbies last season, and didn't handle them well. I was one of those most to blame, as I wanted to keep training behind closed doors, shut everyone out.”
Despite Les Gones being among the most attacking sides this season, the former defender feels that his side should go out on attacking their opponents, instead of defending against them. The Marseille-born said:
“This year, we're lucky enough to be in a positive phase. We have to capitalise on that and play our game. We'll play to attack, score goals and win the derby.”
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